RBPD trains with guns

By Staff
Melissa Cason
RED BAY – The Red Bay Police Department completing their firearms training this week.
Police Chief Pat Creel's officers train with their firearms three times per year in order to maintain certification and keep them proficient with their firearm.
"They qualify with the same firearm they carry on the street and with their patrol rifles," Creel said.
Firearms Instructors Sgt. Scottie Belue and Sgt. Scotty Chandler make sure their officers are familiar with their equipment to an extent that exceeds state requirements.
"APOST requires that all officers score at least 70 percent in order to maintain firearms certification, but our department mandates that all officers score at least an 80," Belue said.
Thursday's training session was held despite a torrential downpour, which Creel said helps keep the officers sharp in less than desireable conditions.
"Our officers need to be prepared for any situation so we hold training rain or shine, hot or cold," Creel said, adding the rain actually worked in his department's favor because it gave his officers experience with shooting in the rain.
"Just because we have inclement weather doesn't mean our job stops," Belue said. "We have to work in the rain answering calls and working accidents."