Cumberland deputies hope tactical training saves lives
FAYETTEVILLE (WTVD) -- As officers across the country are on high alert following the recent ambushing of police, the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office is focused on tactics to eliminate threats.
Deputies train four times a year to prepare for real-life situations and Wednesday, the agency assembled members of its team for another module of instruction.
The scenario? A simulated school shooting where an officer had already been shot.
Not only were deputies tasked with engaging the shooter but they also had to assist the wounded office before entering the school to secure the building.
The Sheriff's Office says these types of scenarios are designed to sharpen an officer's decision-making skills in the heat of the moment.
"We train these guys every day to be at a state of high vigilance," said Lt. Corrie Simmons. "Looking over your shoulder, watching your back and looking out for your other brothers in arms."
Simmons oversees the training facility for the Sheriff's Office. He says though he hopes officers never have to encounter such dangerous conditions, proper training makes all the difference when it comes to survival.
"We want to teach our officers to stay alive, regardless of the situation," Simmons said.
According to the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office, the Fayetteville, Hope Mills and Spring Lake police departments all undergo the same type of training.
The Sheriff's Office will resume the training in January.
