Training

The Sioux Falls Police Department seeks to provide all of the department staff with the highest quality training possible. We also have set a standard that each officer should receive a minimum of 40 hours of training per year. The department training in 2010 continued this commitment by bringing officers to their annual week-long in-service training. During this week of training, officers completed all of the required courses for the year. These courses included firearms training, defensive tactics, and healthy lifestyles, along with classes on legal updates and customer service.

The department’s emergency vehicle operations instructors also conducted two training sessions this past year. This training was held at the fairgrounds and focused on basic driving skills instead of being able to drive faster.

In 2010 the department hired 18 new officers. These officers were hired to fill vacancies created by retirements and positions provided through a COPS grant.

The department was also fortunate enough to host several classes this past year. These classes were hosted at minimal cost to the department. By providing a place to conduct the classes, the department was granted seats in the class for no charge. Some of the classes were also hosted through grants for Law Enforcement Training in Pierre. These classes were opened up to the state of South Dakota so that other law enforcement officers from around the state could obtain the valuable training as well.

The training staff currently consists of four individuals assigned to the Administrative Division. However, there are many other members of the department who assist with the task of training department staff. The Administrative Staff would like to formally thank all those who took time away from their normal duties to assist with the training function.

During 2010, the training staff coordinated a session of the Citizens’ Police Academy. This training was very well received, as usual. There were 34 members of our community who were provided a better look at the internal workings of the Sioux Falls Police Department.