HILLSBORO, ORE., MARCH 9, 2009 — Threat Dynamics today opened the first law-enforcement use-of-force training facility ever built using only private funds. The facility uses Tempe, Ariz.-based VirTra Systems hyper-realistic “immersive” virtual training protocol, and was built in partnership with VirTra.
“As recent national news items demonstrate, use-of-force issues are the most complex and most studied issues confronting law enforcement officers and agencies today,” said Threat Dynamics co-founder Scot Laney. “Use-of-force scenarios are also the most difficult to train for, and the technology for the best such training is too expensive for many law enforcement agencies to afford. Because we feel so strongly that better use-of-force training will benefit officers and civilians, we built this facility without using a dime of public funds.”
Threat Dynamics’ Northwest Regional Training Facility in Hillsboro, Ore. uses what is termed “immersive training.” Trainees are surrounded by high-definition video, sound and vibration, and wear a device that shocks them if they are shot. Importantly, trainees can use multiple levels of the “force ladder” to subdue a suspect, from voice commands, to OC (chemical) spray, to TASER, to lethal force (firearms). The interactive VirTra software registers it all, and records what happens so the officers’ reactions can be reviewed to further refine their training.
“VirTra’s immersive virtual reality offers the most realistic and effective simulation training in the world,” said VirTra’s Brian Wardell. “Training with our technology saves lives through higher levels of skill and superior judgment. This partnership is an exciting opportunity to bring this technology to agencies that otherwise might not be able to benefit from it.”
For additional information on Threat Dynamics or its Northwest Regional Training Facility, visit www.threatdynamics.com.
