The Artesia Police Department, in an effort to ensure all officers are at the same level in terms of active-threat response, conducted active-threat drills July 19 in the former Abo Elementary School building. Officers attended training sessions ranging from classroom and practice exercises to scenario-based training. Cmdr. Lindell Smith of the APD said Abo provides officers with a realistic training environment in which to conduct room checks, lockdown procedures, and engaging a threat. Above, instructor Cpl. David Bailey and APD’s newest officer, Cody Rodriguez, practice movement toward trouble in a hallway. Below, a class receives instruction. At bottom, seasoned and new officers alike learn how to deal with different situations.
