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HPD officers undergo scenario-based training from Middlesex Sheriff’s Office

A Hopkinton police officer works through an interactive scenario as part of a training facilitated by the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office. PHOTO/MIDDLESEX SHERIFF’S OFFICE.

The Hopkinton Police Department recently completed training that will help officers better respond to a number of real-world scenarios on the job.

Between March 10-14, the HPD, along with members of the Sherborn Police Department, ran through a series of scenario-based trainings in the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office Mobile Training Center. The center was staged at the Fruit Street Department of Public Works building for the duration of the training.

According to a press release from the sheriff’s office, officers were “put through a series of video-based scenarios that replicated situations they may encounter on any shift.” These can range from traffic stops to dealing with individuals dealing with a mental health crisis. Officers also were taken through active shooter scenarios.

“The scenarios range from no force to lethal force,” said HPD Deputy Chief Scott van Raalten. He described how the video scenarios would change depending on how officers responded, and debriefing would occur afterward to discuss alternate routes for resolving the given conflict.

“It’s a good training tool,” van Raalten said. “It’s one of the ways we can impose stress in a controlled environment on an officer and evaluate their decision-making process.”

“The officers who actually get into it, you can see that their stress level goes up,” which can lead to the diminishment of motor skills, he added. This allows instructors and leaders to demonstrate how issues like tunnel vision can impact an officer’s judgment when responding to a situation on the job.

Having access to this type of training allows the HPD to prepare for real-world scenarios in a safe environment.

“It’s about as close as we can get [to a real life situation] safely,” van Raalten said.

Latest News

Two finalists for the superintendent role at Hopkinton Public Schools remain after one candidate withdrew from consideration, according to an update on the HPS website.

Police and fire crews responded to a rollover on Saddle Hill Road on Wednesday night that left the road impassable for several hours.

This week’s Baypath Adoptable Animal is 1-year-old Krew, a high-energy pup who is still learning good manners but thrives around people and is eager to learn.

Polly Freese, 94, passed away Feb. 25. She was a graduate of Hopkinton High School.

The Hopkinton Center for the Arts will host the eight-piece ’80s revival band Radio Musikola on March 29.

Photo of the Day

Residents of Nazneen Circle celebrated the festival of Holi in their neighborhood last Saturday. “The event was filled with joy and laughter as we embraced the tradition of throwing colors and spreading happiness,” shared resident Venkat Katta. “A brief potluck added to the festivities, allowing everyone to share delicious homemade dishes. It was a memorable day that highlighted the beauty of togetherness and cultural celebration.”