The Benton Police Department strives to ensure that each person within the department is properly trained in his or her assignment. Training begins as soon as the individual begins employment and continues throughout their career as an officer. It is our goal to provide the most professional and knowledgeable police officers, as well as support staff, to the community we serve.
The Training Division consists of a Lieutenant, and a Training Sergeant. They are tasked with ensuring the division operates efficiently and that employees receive appropriate training for their assigned division. The Lieutenant oversees the overall operation of the division and reports to the Administrative Captain.
The Sergeant is the first-line supervisor for the Training Division and ensures that training for each employee is up to date and corresponds with all applicable laws. The Training Sergeant is responsible for scheduling the training as well as making the necessary arrangements for the employee to attend. The Training Officer also instructs classes throughout the year to update employees on new technology and strategies that will assist them in their assigned duties.
Newly hired officers with the Benton Police Department must complete a 13-week training program through the Arkansas Law Enforcement Training Academy where they learn various aspects of law enforcement such as criminal and traffic laws, firearms proficiency, and defensive tactics. Upon graduation from the training academy, new officers then complete a 16-week Field Training Officer program with BNPD. During the 16-week session, the new officer accompanies a Field Training Officer and learns the basics of what a patrol officer position entails in a hands-on environment. New hires are evaluated for readiness at the end of this training period before being released to patrol without an accompanying FTO officer.
Following successful completion of these requirements, officers are assigned to a patrol shift under the direct supervision of the shift Sergeant. The officer is on a two-year probation status from the date of hire and at the conclusion of that time frame they assume the full status of a patrol officer.
