The Federal Government should support the development of partnerships with training facilities across the country to promote consistent standards for high quality training and establish training innovation hubs.
5.1.1 The training innovation hubs should develop replicable model programs that use adult-based learning and scenario-based training in a training environment modeled less like boot camp. Through these programs the hubs would influence nationwide curricula, as well as instructional methodology.
SPPD hires the most qualified candidates
Minnesota is unique in its licensing system for peace officers. Many other states retain some form of academy training followed by certification of the individual officer. Minnesota requires those aspiring to work in law enforcement to complete an educational program and pass a state board exam. Licensing itself only occurs when eligible candidates are appointed to a peace officer position and certain selection standards are met. Licensing is a cooperative process between the POST Board, the hiring agency and the candidate.
Reference Data
Task Status: Established Practice
5.1.2 The training innovation hubs should establish partnerships with academic institutions to develop rigorous training practices, evaluation, and the development of curricula based on evidence-based practices.
SPPD trains to higher standards
The Saint Paul Police Department operates its own police training unit. Training staff continually research and develop training curricula based on national best practices. In addition, training personnel provide consistent and continual training to officers throughout their careers, including:
- A sixteen-week training academy for new officers, which delivers intensive training beyond MN POST Board requirements. In addition to honing technical skills, the program focuses on teaching new police officers “the Saint Paul Way” of policing and includes 40 hours of Crisis Intervention Training (“CIT”).
- Monthly, quarterly and annual training for all department employees. Most Saint Paul police officers accrue training hours far exceeding the minimum requirements set by the MN POST Board.
- Saint Paul Police Department Professional Development Institute (PDI) training. PDI provides training on a variety of subjects and often draws national presenters. PDI offers training to other police departments to cover presenter costs, allowing SPPD officers to receive additional training opportunities far beyond those resourced through the city budget.
Task Status: Established Practice
5.1.2 The training innovation hubs should establish partnerships with academic institutions to develop rigorous training practices, evaluation, and the development of curricula based on evidence-based practices.
SPPD officers meet or exceed state training standards
Every active and inactive peace officer and active part-time peace officer must complete a minimum of forty-eight hours of continuing education within the three-year licensing period in order to maintain and renew their license.
Active officers are required to train annually in use of force and once every five years in emergency vehicle operations/pursuit driving. It is the officer’s discretion which law enforcement related courses they complete to satisfy the remainder of the required forty-eight hours.
Most Saint Paul police officers accrue training hours far exceeding those prescribed by the MN POST Board.
Reference Data
Task Status: Established Practice
5.1.3 The Department of Justice should build a stronger relationship with the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training (IADLEST) in order to leverage their network with state boards and commissions of Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST).
SPPD Response
Not applicable for local law enforcement.
Reference Data
Not Applicable
Task Status: Not Applicable