In 1990 the Republic of Latvia renewed its independence, which it had lost since 1940. Until 1991 public order in Latvia was maintained by the Militia. On June 4, 1991, the Latvian Supreme Soviet passed the law "On Police," which assigned the Latvian Interior Minister the task of reorganizing Militia institutions according to the new law by July 1, 1992. The resignation of more than 1,000 militiamen and the recruitment of new police officers required a change in the training system. Reasons for the change were based in the need to develop policing that reflected the renewal of old values deeply rooted in the Latvian culture. The new police training program focused on Latvian cultural values and the cultural differences among minorities living in Latvia. New teaching methods were also introduced. In addition to teaching the content of police tasks and responsibilities, the training courses also involve simulation exercises in which students practice skills and knowledge under real-life conditions. Various study exercises also take students through the process of investigating a crime, with attention to the collection of evidence and the interviewing of witnesses. The training is divided into three periods; the first 316 lessons on theory are linked to practical simulation exercises. This is followed by 2 months of practical work in a police division, which is in turn followed by 292 lessons in practical exercises and the investigation of various types of offenses.
New Approach to Police Training in Latvia After Political Changes in 1991 (From Policing in Central and Eastern Europe: Comparing Firsthand Knowledge With Experience From the West, P 601-603, 1996, Milan Pagon, ed. -- See NCJ-170291)
NCJ Number
170342
Date Published
1996
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This paper discusses the reasons for and the nature of a new approach to police training in Latvia after political changes in 1991.
Abstract