Page 79 - 2021 A Year in Review

Within each of these sessions, the instructors used progressive training techniques

that enhanced the 2020 sessions while maintaining the required standards for the

Cranston Police Department, the State of Rhode Island, and CALEA. This continued

to be true of the 2021 departmental firearms training and qualifications. In addition

to the necessary decision shooting, reduced light shooting, moving targets, use of

cover, non-dominate hand shooting, alternate position shooting, reloading drills, and

malfunction situations, officers participated in ballistic shield techniques with

members of SRT and vehicle ambush counter-tactics with the Training Division

Firearms Instructor staff.

The multiple three-day patrol rifle certification classes were canceled in 2020 because

COVID were held in 2021. As such, eleven officers and three detectives were certified.

Additionally, the current patrol rifle operators received annual training and qualified twice

to carry the weapon system throughout the year. During the yearly training, officers

participated in multiple drills, including moving from their vehicle to cover, target

acquisition, firing from multiple stances, malfunctions, and caring for the patrol rifle.

Based on the success of using PowerDMS for Control Tactics presentations during COVID,

it was used again in 2021. By doing so, sworn members were allowed to view the

presentations and take the written exam while on duty. This allowed for more time in

person to review the major instruction points and then perform further hands-on practical

training. The same key elements of decision-making, communication, proper techniques,

including multiple officer techniques, proper documentation, and the duty to intervene

were emphasized. Regarding weapons, officers practiced transition to/from less lethal

(OC, baton & Taser, if applicable) to lethal then back again during the proficiency

demonstrations.

79
Cranston Police Department Year in Review 2021