OPD puts recruits through intense exercises at training academy

OWENSBORO, Ky. (WFIE) - New recruits at the Owensboro Police Department are putting their strengths to the test.

Officers say the recruits just recently finished 16 weeks of intensive training at the agency’s basic training academy.

After passing their midterm physical fitness exams, the recruits spent the recent weeks completing intensive hands-on training.

“One key focus has been traffic stops—an essential and potentially dangerous aspect of policing that officers will encounter throughout their careers," said OPD on Facebook. “Defensive tactics training has progressed to include the use of impact weapons and the rigorous ‘Redman’ scenario-based exercise.”

Police say each recruit also experienced the effects of pepper spray firsthand as part of the training.

Even with the intensive exercises, OPD says legal instruction is still a central component of their curriculum.