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Sturbridge police officers complete legal updates training
Committed to staying informed about changes to laws and updates in current criminal procedures, the Sturbridge Police Department recently dispatched four officers to complete a Law Enforcement Liability In-service Training, held on October 20 at the Charlton Public Library. The Massachusetts Interlocal Insurance Association (MIIA), Sturbridge’s property and casualty insurance provider, conducted the full-day training session free of charge for a total of 31 officers. The training served not to only educate the participating officers, but also to help minimize potential liability issues and save money on municipal insurance premiums.

The interactive, full-day course covered the latest developments in motor vehicle and criminal law and helped clarify the often complicated jurisdictional procedures faced by officers in their day-to-day jobs. Participants learned how to best address vehicle stops including reckless driving and civil offenses, as well as handle exit orders and frisks. They discussed developments related to firearms regulations and medical marijuana, as well as regulation of “drones” and protective custody issues. Participants examined procedural updates for domestic violence, juvenile issues, and interrogation. All attendees received a reference manual covering a range of issues, including the topics covered during the in-person training and more.

“I am happy to know that opportunities for training such as this exist for our Police Department,” said Leon A.  Gaumond Jr., Town Administrator for the Town of Sturbridge.  “The complexity of issues facing our Police Department increases every year.  Trainings such as this help us stay current and better prepare us to serve and protect the citizens of Sturbridge.”

John Scheft – founder of Law Enforcement Dimensions, LLC and author of widely-used manuals on motor vehicle law, criminal law and juvenile issues – conducted the training. Upon completion of this and other MIIA risk- and loss-prevention programs, participating municipalities are eligible to receive insurance premium credits through the MIIA Rewards Programs, reducing costs of property and casualty insurance.