Training

Responsibilities

Training is one of the most important responsibilities in any law enforcement agency. Training serves three broad purposes:

  • Well-trained officers are generally better prepared to act decisively and correctly in a broad spectrum of situations
  • Training results in greater productivity and effectiveness
  • Fosters cooperation and unity of purpose

Furthermore, agencies are now being held legally accountable for the actions of their personnel and for failing to provide initial or remedial training. The Cleveland Police Department recognizes the importance of training and is committed to providing the best training available to all personnel.

Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission

Tennessee Code Annotated 38-8-102 through 38-8-104 establishes and empowers the Peace Officers Standards and Training Commission (P.O.S.T.) to establish uniform standards for employment and training of police officers. Said standards and training are mandatory and binding upon any municipality in the State of Tennessee. Under the same statutes, the commission shall also approve any curriculum and facilities utilized in training.

Evaluation techniques including tests, scenarios and practical exams are utilized in this training. Officers are required to complete the basic police training program at an institute meeting P.O.S.T. Commission standards. The legal basis for attendance of department officers at these academies is governed by T.C.A. 38-8-104 and T.C.A. 38-8-210. As provided under T.C.A. 38-8-107, proof of successful completion of said training shall be in the form of a certificate of completion issued by the commission. Also, the commission may issue a certificate to any person who has received training in another state when the commission has determined that the training was at least the equivalent of the training required by the commission and the person has complied with T.C.A. 38- 8-106.

Yearly Education

All sworn personnel of the Cleveland Police Department on annual basis attend a 40-hour in-service school. All sworn personnel receive instruction on the following:

  • Legal updates
  • Emergency vehicle operations
  • Firearms training and qualification
  • Less lethal (taser and OC spray)
  • Mental health
  • Use of force
  • Diversity training