PD adds tasers, drone and virtual reality training
RED BAY — The Red Bay Police Department has outfitted its officers with new TASER 10 energy weapons, added a drone with thermal imaging, and implemented a virtual reality training system designed to strengthen de-escalation and decision making in critical encounters.
Chief Janna Jackson said the department received 10 TASER 10 units, enough to equip all officers and the on-duty dispatcher.
The devices hold 10 cartridges — compared to one or two in older models — and allow officers to fire each probe individually. Jackson said the tasers offer improved accuracy, better range and reduced risk by allowing deployment from a safer distance.
“They’re not dependent on pain compliance and still work effectively on individuals with a high pain tolerance,” she said.
Training on the new equipment has already begun. Personnel from AXON, the company that supplies both the tasers and the virtual reality system, are leading the sessions and helping set up the technology.
Jackson said the virtual reality system allows officers to engage in scenario-based training focused on mental illness, domestic violence, robbery, autism and other disabilities. She said the program is designed to build empathy, improve communication and support better judgment under pressure.
“It helps officers learn how the public perceives law enforcement encounters and how their own responses can shape the outcome,” she said.
According to the International Association of Chiefs of Police, virtual reality simulation is an emerging trend in law enforcement training.
Red Bay Police Captain Kyle Gober uses a virtual reality headset during a training session designed to improve de-escalation and decision-making. Sgt. Eric Zills, background, also participated in the new VR program provided by AXON.
This marks the first time the department has had its own VR training system. Jackson said officers will continue to use the range for firearms training, but the new tool adds a layer of situational learning not previously available.
The department has also acquired a DJI Matrice 4 drone with thermal imaging, purchased through a grant from the Franklin County Community Development Commission.
Jackson said the drone has been delivered, and a department policy is being developed to govern its use.
During a recent city council meeting, Councilman Brad Bolton raised the possibility of using drones during building-clearing exercises and other emergencies. Jackson said the drone will support those efforts, as well as search-and-rescue operations and suspect tracking.
Jackson said the department is still working to determine operational procedures and who will be authorized to use the drone.
She said the drone will serve a variety of roles to support public safety and assist officers in the field.
“It will help us better serve the community in patrolling events with larger crowds,” she said, “and to get better aerial views in life-threatening situations when applicable.”
She said it will also aid in search and rescue efforts, help apprehend suspects when visibility is limited, and provide aerial documentation of crime scenes and serious crashes.
“There are many uses for a drone,” Jackson said, “and we intend to utilize it to better protect and serve our community.”
