Local law officers use AG’s simulators

Information submitted

The Van Wert Police Department, along with the Van Wert County Sheriff’s Office, and Convoy and Ohio City police departments, took advantage of the Ohio Attorney General’s new Ohio Police Officer Mobile Academy for driving and firearms simulators by hosting an event at Vantage Career Center this week.

The new mobile academy platform allows agencies to have access to the latest driving and firearms simulators, along with expert instructors for free, because they are paid for from casino proceeds the state receives.

“We’ve ramped up OPOTA’s regional trainings significantly in the past two years, and by adding these new courses that address particularly high-risk situations, we’re making an even greater commitment,” said Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine. “This kind of training enhances decision-making and saves lives. Through the Mobile Academy, we will bring this instruction right to officers’ backyards and do it at no cost to their agencies.”

Firearms training was offered on MILO Range Pro simulators that feature about 425 scenarios, scenario-authoring software, and a library of firearms drills and exercises. The simulators use high-definition video and recoil weapons, TASERS, and other realistic equipment.

The driving training was conducted in a PatrolSim driving simulator that features programmable dashboards able to replicate those of all popular cruisers. Instructors can use provided scenarios or build their own to focus on answering high-risk calls, conducting pursuits, clearing intersections, and other skills. The simulators are housed in climate-controlled trailers, allowing instruction to take place right next to local departments’ facilities.

Both Van Wert County Sheriff Tom Riggenbach and Van Wert Police Chief Joel Hammond were very pleased that both their departments were able to have the majority of their deputies and officers attend this valuable training.

In addition, having a great location such as Vantage Career Center for the training venue really assisted in hosting this event.