‘It’s vital especially in this climate’: Why WPD wants you to try use-of-force simulator

NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — The Wilmington Police Department is giving you a chance to step into an officer’s shoes when they are making split second decisions.

Using the VirTra Use-of-Force simulator, you can experience how police de-escalate situations and if a weapon is necessary, how they decided which one to use.

Wilmington PD Spokeswoman Linda Thompson says a lot of people have been interested in the opportunity.

In order for you to take part, you must prove that you are a Wilmington resident and take a virtual Citizens Police Academy course.

We’re giving citizens the opportunity to step into an officer’s shoes using our VirTra Use-of-Force simulator. Find out how you would react when confronted by a potentially dangerous person, and receive feedback from real police instructors. Watch to find out more: pic.twitter.com/tDMRskdomL

— Wilmington Police (@WilmingtonPD) July 15, 2020

Thompson says the machine is not a toy, but an important piece of equipment used to train police officers.

“It’s important, it’s vital, especially in this climate,” Thompson said. “It’s a great opportunity to let people know what we’re doing to try and certainly make sure that our counters with the public are as safe, as positive and successful as possible.”

The Use-of-Force simulator is located at the Haynes-Lacewell Police and Fire Training Facility at 3100 Hurst Street in Wilmington.

To reserve a date and time you can contact Sabrina Sims at sabrina.sims@wilmingtonnc.gov.

WPD said space is limited and masks are required.