NCJ Number
119979
Date Published
1989
Length
210 pages
Annotation
The Governor's Panel to Review Police Training Programs reviewed the standards for police cadet training statewide and made recommendations based on their findings.
Abstract
Although several issues were reviewed, the Panel focused on physical training and the use of the so-called "modified stress environment" or "stress reaction training" as a training technique. This technique was under fire as a result of an incident at Agawam Police Academy, where several cadets experienced kidney problems following a physical training session. Recommendations included tightening medical and physical screening requirements as part of the police cadet selection process; improving physical fitness and reducing health risks during physical training; and creating a more appropriate environment for the training program, including the elimination of the use of physical exercise as punishment. Also, the Panel encouraged the use of programs for field training for police officers immediately after graduation from the police academy, so that the new police officers get additional orientation aimed specifically at the needs of their communities. Bibliography and appendix.