Modernization of Scenario-Based Firearms Training Systems

Police Officer response to resistance remains a critical issue among elected officials, law enforcement professionals, and the communities they serve. The high-profile deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Eric Garner, Michael Brown, Tyre Nichols and others have shaken the policing profession. Key issues that have become apparent are the need to explore, improve and expand ways we train police officers in response to resistance, to continue improving efforts to de-escalate minor encounters and to become more transparent.
The Prince William County Police Department Firearms Training Unit currently trains approximately 1,200 people annually. The unit trains basic/advanced firearms use to police recruits and in-service members, Adult Detention Center Officers, Fire Marshals, Sheriff's Deputies and School Security Officers. Additionally, this training includes decision making in the use of cover and target identification with shoot and no shoot targets.
Firearms training is limited by the design of the aging and unreliable target system in the existing firearms range facility. Further, the existing system software and hardware is no longer supported by the vendor. Accordingly, the project includes upgrading targeting systems with streamlined user-friendly technology, integrated systems to keep public safety personnel engaged in the training, and the ability to troubleshoot and resolve system issues on the fly through enhanced software to mitigate downtime of public safety personnel. Goals of the project include: Continue to build fairness, trust, legitimacy, and transparency within the community; Strengthen the Police Department’s relationships with the community; Place greater emphasis on compassion and reinforce the sanctity of human life; Promote better evidence-based decision-making regarding Officer response to resistance and the use of firearms; Enhanced capabilities of the agency’s Firearms Training and Control Tactics Units using modern technology to improve decision-making and de-escalation training; and Provide firearms range instructors with the ability to direct system actions based on an Officer's decisions and performance.