Acton Police Department and Middlesex Sheriff’s Office partner to put officers through scenario-based training

Forty-two (42) members of the Acton Police Department (APD) recently completed a week of interactive, scenario-based training in partnership with the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office (MSO), utilizing the office’s Mobile Training Center (MTC), Police Chief Richard Burrows and Sheriff Peter J. Koutoujian announced today.

This marked the first time Acton PD had utilized the MTC since 2018. 

Between March 15-19 members of Acton PD participated in skill building exercises as well as virtual scenarios that allowed officers the ability to train for real-life situations and scenarios through simulations of incidents they may encounter during their duties.

The MTC is a specialized trailer that allowed officers one-on-one time to work directly with APD instructors and MSO deputies.  APD officers who participated in the training went through a series of scenarios focused on workplace settings, traffic stops, burglary situations, and mental health crisis all of which places heavy emphasis on communication and de-escalation skills.  Officers also participated in an active shooter scenario.

“The MTC is an excellent, invaluable training tool that we are eager to share with our law enforcement partners,” said Sheriff Koutoujian.  “The unique scenarios require officers to react in real time, and allows them to utilize all of their previous trainings and skills while building confidence in themselves.  We are proud to once again be working with Chief Burrows and Acton Police Department.”

“The Mobile Training Center (MTC) provides a great opportunity for our officers to practice and improve de-escalation skills in very realistic scenarios,” said Chief Burrows. “The MTC and its staff give instant feedback and allows officers to see the results of effective communication.  We appreciate the professional relationship we have the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office.”

The MTC was purchased by the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office with federal grant funds in 2010 and has been utilized by numerous local municipal and university police departments. In 2020, more than 875 officers participated in trainings in the MTC.

This year the MTC has already been utilized by departments in a number of area communities including Tyngsborough, Billerica, Bedford and Concord.

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