WeHa PD Unveils High

Jun 28, 2023

WEST HARTFORD, CT — Back in the day, there was only so much training could do when it came for police officers to prepare for what they'd encounter in the field.

Training for generations of law enforcers was mostly of the "on-the-job" variety.

But thanks to modern, virtual reality technology, police can simulate just about any contingency in the field and the West Hartford Police Department has unveiled a new simulator that does just that.

The WHPD Monday announced the acqisition of what's called a "VirTra 300" law enforcement training simulator.

Police were planning Wednesday to formally unveil what it can do to the media at a special demonstration in the afternoon.

In police terms, "the simulator provides realistic, immersive and judgmental training solutions that are based on scientific research," according to the WHPD.

But the simulator is best explained as a multi-media display that immediatelly puts officers in various law enforcement situations.

It is just like, for example, a plane simulator that puts pilots into the world of aviation without getting off the ground.

"The Town of West Hartford and West Hartford Police Department is constantly improving upon the training, response capabilities and overall level of service provided by its police officers," wrote the department Monday.

Among the types of training the simulator aids in are: de-escalation; domestic violence; duty to intervene; crisis intervention; traffic stops; active threats; and so-called "low-light" training.

The WHPD said simulated incidents provide a necessary level of experience should the unusual or, worse, unthinkable, happen in the field.

Essentially, this simulator is a high-tech version of the famous "choose-your-own-adventure" books of childhood.

"Real-life events are rarely simple and may not occur on a regular basis, which is why VirTra designed each training scenario to be complex," wrote the department.

"Through extensive branching options, each scenario can unfold based on the decisions made by the officer while inside the simulation.

"In short, the simulation can change based on the officer’s actions, verbal interactions and their de-escalation attempts."

Police said the simulator will aid officers in developing communication skills, mastery of verbal and non-verbal cues, officer presence and utilizing less-lethal forms of force.

"The West Hartford Police Department is committed to providing top level training and tools to our officers so they can serve our community effectively and compassionately," wrote the WHPD.