PORTAGE, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — The Portage Department of Public Safety’s Police Division has added a virtual trainer to their ranks.
The department launched and immersive virtual reality training program called “Apex Officer” on Tuesday, December 13.
According to the department, the program aims to prepare officers for real-world scenarios in a safe and controlled environment. “Apex Officer” will allow trainees to go through various scenarios using real firearms and equipment modified specifically for virtual reality.
“In a time when law enforcement officers are receiving more scrutiny than ever due to high-profile incidents of police use of force, we looked at how we could reimagine our training program to better prepare officers for those types of conditions,” said Public Safety Director Nicholas Armold.
Scenarios include training in de-escalation, crisis intervention, duty to intervene, active shooter events along with others. The department says as current officers are already training with the system as time permits, new officers are expected to receive “Apex Officer” training as part of their onboarding.
Portage Department of Public Saftey Training Sergeant Michael Collier, who is heading up the new training system, stated, “The flexibility that Apex Officer provides will enable us to create, in a safe VR environment, situations that officers will face in real life.”
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