Pillar five focuses on the training and education needs of law enforcement, which is constantly evolving. The skills and knowledge required to effectively deal with these challenges necessitate an expanded level of education and training to do so.
To ensure the high quality and effectiveness of these programs, law enforcement agencies should engage community members, particularly those with special expertise, in the training process and provide leadership training to all personnel throughout their careers. Skill development in the area of realistic, scenario-based training has become increasingly important to better manage outcomes and minimize use-of-force.
Examples of the ways the police department demonstrates best practices in training and education:
- The department follows and exceeds Massachusetts Peace Officers Standards & Training Board requirements for hiring officers.
- Various training opportunities are provided by the department.
- In 2024, the department established a new role for a Sergeant to oversee training initiatives. Headed by Sgt. Nicholas Ziminsky, who also serves as a SWAT Operator, this unit consistently delivers updated training sessions for officers, covering areas such as Use of Force and various tactics.
- Police officers are provided with annual use-of-force training that includes a variety of force options and scenario-based training of the highest standards, emphasizing verbal de-escalation and crisis intervention techniques.
- Each new officer is trained by a certified Field Training Officer (FTO) for a minimum of twelve weeks after graduating from a 26-week police academy. The FTO that the new officer is paired with has advanced knowledge of the department policies and procedures.