The following announcement was provided by the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office:
Watertown Police Chief Justin Hanrahan and Middlesex Sheriff Peter J. Koutoujian have announced that 43 Watertown police officers recently completed interactive, scenario-based training facilitated by the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office (MSO).
Training was completed between April 22-26 in Watertown utilizing the MSO’s Mobile Training Center (MTC).
During the training, officers were put through a series of video-based scenarios that replicated situations they may need to respond to on any shift. This included traffic stops and incidents in which individuals were in mental health crisis. These scenarios allowed officers to focus on the effective use of communication and de-escalation skills, with Watertown PD training staff able to provide immediate feedback.
Officers also participated in an active-shooter scenario.
“We are proud to work with Chief Hanrahan and the Watertown Police Department to facilitate this training opportunity,” said Sheriff Koutoujian. “The MTC is a unique and valuable asset, in large part, because officers who go through the it are required to utilize the full range of their training and experience, just as is needed on the street. We look forward to continuing to work closely with our Watertown Police partners on this and many more critical public safety initiatives.”
“In the realm of public safety, collaboration is the cornerstone of success,” said Chief Hanrahan. Sheriff Peter Koutoujian’s generosity in granting access to the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office Mobile Training Center for our Watertown Police officers exemplifies this spirit of unity. We extend our sincerest gratitude for his unwavering support and commitment to ensuring our officers are equipped with the best resources available. Together, through shared initiatives like these, we reinforce the bond between agencies and strengthen our collective ability to serve and protect our community.”