Prince William County Police Department

All Officers must take ICS 100 and ICS 700. All Sergeants must complete ICS 200. These three classes are available online.

All First Sergeants and above must complete ICS 300 (available only in the classroom). All Captains and above must complete ICS 800.

No Department registration is required for the online courses. Please submit your certificates upon successful completion of these courses.

NIMS Courses Available Online through FEMA's Independent Study Program

This course equips law enforcement professionals with a solid game plan to build personal morale, take control of their mindset and operate from purpose--not just from pressure. It can help first responders to not feel stuck in survival mode: burned out, bitter or numb. The instructor is someone who has been through the chaos, the anger and the burnout, and has come out on the other side with a mission to help other first responders do the same.

This two-day course covers four broad tenets of effective communication, encompassing the 16 "undeniable laws": credibility and authenticity; crafting and delivering the message; engaging the audience, and impact & influence. By mastering these tenets and laws, individuals can improve their communication skills, build stronger relationships and make a lasting impression with their message.

This three-day comprehensive course uses the ASIM Checklist integrated-response process with 11 hands-on scenario exercises using the standard simulation system. The course is appropriate for all ranks of law enforcement, fire, EMS and dispatch. It provides hands-on incident-management experience for street responders and leaders alike. Participants are trained to integrate and manage a multi-discipline response to a range of active-shooter and hostile-event threats. The goal is simple: decrease the time to neutralize the threat and get injured persons to a hospital.

NOTES:

• To register, use this hyperlink AND contact the course coordinator (K. Walmsley).
• Location: Marriott Dining Hall at Camp Snyder in Haymarket, Va.
• Eligibility: Sworn law enforcement personnel as well as dispatchers, fire & EMS

This week-long course is designed for officers who are already certified to work in a Bicycle Patrol Officer capacity. Students will learn advanced bike-handling techniques, participate in dynamic off-road riding, firearms training and reality-based scenario training. This is a physically demanding course, and all students must be in good physical condition to attend.

• Prior completion of a basic bicycle patrol officer school is mandatory. 
• Eligibility: Sworn law enforcement personnel who have completed a basic bicycle school

This training is intended to expand upon the concepts and principles of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) that is learned in the four-day Conducting Comprehensive School Security Assessments course or the two-day Introductory CPTED course. This advanced CPTED course provides a more detailed examination of the specific environments and tools needed by law enforcement to successfully serve as a CPTED practitioner. Completion of this course counts toward receipt of the Law Enforcement CPTED Practitioner Certification.

• Eligibility: Open to all sworn law enforcement personnel.
• Location: Prince William County Sheriff's Office 9540 Center Street, Manassas, VA 20110
• Registration

This three-day course provides training for investigators and first responders to recognize pertinent details of violent crime scenes and cues that may indicate the crime scene has been staged. The course covers the following:

• The Investigation and Prosecution of Near-Fatal and Fatal Strangulation Cases -- Applications for forensic nurses, law enforcement, prosecutors, and domestic-violence prevention advocates (8-hours)
• The Forensic Evaluations of Gunshot Wounds -- Applications for the investigation and reconstruction of domestic and officer-involved shootings (8-hours)
• Recognizing a Staged Wound or Altered Crime Scene -- Case studies (with practical and mannequins) of homicides staged to look like suicides, natural, or accidental deaths (8-hours)

This training reviews illegal animal abuse, including investigatory techniques, applicable state and federal laws and tips for successful outcomes.
Topics covered include considerations for assessing potential violations and different solutions available; the link between animal abuse and other types of violent crime; report writing and warrants; recognizing and collecting relevant evidence; and interpreting and applying cruelty and fighting laws.
 

The ASI ATV Rider Course provides hands-on training, with emphasis on the safety implications relating to each lesson. Students will learn basic techniques for riding an All-terrain vehicle responsibly. The lessons include starting and stopping, quick turns, hill riding, swerving, and riding over obstacles.

Instructor message:
One of the primary roles of the ATV’s is at Jiffy Lube Live functions.  It is expected that those that sign up for this class will be filling slots at the concerts in the upcoming year.  

• Eligibility: Open to sworn law enforcement personnel
• Location: EVOC

This week-long course introduces the student to the fundamentals of crash investigation, providing investigative techniques, methods, and proven procedures -- all of which are related to the basics of collision investigation. Students will learn to identify and measure skid marks, determine critical points for key events in a collision, proper scene documentation, basic evidence preservation and collection, interviewing parties, as well as search warrant and case preparation. Course work does require some basic algebra-based math skills. A calculator will be provided.

• Eligibility: Open to all sworn law enforcement personnel.
• Location: EVOC classroom

This course, offered through the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) and presented by Justice 3D, will provide an introduction to three key interview methods conducted in law enforcement today: witness interviewing; trauma-informed interviewing; and empathy-based interrogation.

Any interested officer/detective must get supervisor approval and register with the link: https://www.dcjs.virginia.gov/training-events/basic-interview-training

Once a student has registered, they must notify the listed Department course coordinator so a roster can be developed.

• Eligibility: Open to sworn law enforcement personnel

This Ox Hill seminar provides insightful leadership training for managers and employees of government, non-profit and business. The importance of teamwork, communication, creativity, initiative, conflict resolution, risk-taking and determination is emphasized. Themes explored include:

1. The critical difference between managing and leading
2. Be fair but firm
3. Share credit for success and take responsibility for failure
4. Don't let arrogance cloud judgment
5. Encouraging risk means absorbing mistakes
6. Don't let bureaucracy stifle creativity and innovation 

Part of the seminar focuses on the fact that the success or failure of a manager and leader doesn't depend on how well they accomplish routine daily tasks but on how they perform under pressure -- in crisis situations -- when the key attributes of leadership are most critical to success.

• Lunch and snacks are provided. The bus will leave the SBTC parking lot promptly at 0700. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, appropriate for the weather, as walking is involved.

Everyone influences others. You don’t have to be in a high-profile occupation to be an influencer; whenever your life connects with another person, you exert influence. Everything you do – at home, at work or at play – has an effect on the lives around you. No matter what your goals are in life, you can achieve them faster, you can be more effective and the contribution you make can be longer lasting if you learn to develop your influence.

• Eligibility: Open to all Prince William County Police Department members

This week-long course is designed for officers interested in becoming a bike patrol officer. Students will learn basic bike-handling principles and techniques, as well as pursuit and emergency braking techniques. Topics also include bike handling in traffic and in crowded conditions, as well as off-road riding. *This is a physically demanding class, and all students must be in good physical condition to attend.* Students must also be able to successfully complete a 5- to 10-mile ride each day, and one 15- to 20-mile ride.

• Training on Thursday will be held in the evening hours (1400 - 2200) to acquaint students with low-light conditions.
• All students MUST complete all hours of training to receive certification. If you have court on any training day, you cannot sign up for this course.
• You must have the Bike Supervisor’s prior approval to register for this course.
• Completion of the course is not authorization to work in a Bike Officer capacity. Authorization from the Chief of Police is required to work as a Bike Officer. 
• Eligibility: Open to all sworn law enforcement personnel

This course aims to enhance the overall understanding of body language from a law enforcement perspective. The topics covered in this course are specifically designed to equip criminal justice officers with valuable skills in recognizing and interpreting body language cues to improve communication, anticipate and de-escalate violent encounters, and effectively detect deception. The course will also focus on the importance of documenting observations accurately in official reports.

• Eligibility: Open to all sworn law enforcement personnel (specifically, patrol officers, investigators, School Resource Officers, correctional officers, and agency trainers
• Location: DFS, 10850 Pyramid Place, Manassas, VA 20110

This course provides supervisors with practical strategies to help influence the workplace culture and turn compliance into commitment by improving employee morale, accountability and performance. This is a full-day leadership development program for all supervisors regardless of their rank or experience.

This training consists of classroom lecture and field hands-on application. After successfully completing the course, in the event of an emergency operators shall have the authority to check out a chainsaw from their respective station(s). All students MUST complete all hours of training to receive certification.

• Eligibility: Open to all sworn law enforcement personnel

ChildFirst™ Virginia is an intensive five-day course where participants learn the necessary skills to conduct an investigative, forensic interview of a suspected victim of child abuse. This interactive course includes lectures, skill-building exercises, review of recorded interviews, homework reading assignments, and a written examination at the end of the course. Participants also must conduct a 25-minute interview of a professional actor portraying the role of an abused child. Upon completion of the mock interview, the interviewer receives constructive feedback from a professional forensic interviewer and a group of fellow students. Successful participants will receive a certificate of completion.

• Eligibility: Open to those who work in jobs where they conduct forensic interviews of suspected child abuse victims, or defend forensic interviews in court, such as law enforcement investigators, DSS caseworkers, CAC staff, and prosecutors.
• NOTE: Please see the course announcement email from Keith Walmsley, dated March 12, 2025, for information on how to register for this course. It is a two-part process.
   

This 40-hour course is the first step in becoming a DCJS-certified control tactics instructor. It provides an overview of the Prince William County control tactics curriculum and introduces students to the fundamentals of designing and managing courses in a control tactics environment. After completing this course, students are required to complete an observation period and apprenticeship to be certified as control tactics instructors. Students MUST attend every hour of this course to fulfill DCJS requirements.

• Eligibility: Applicants must be certified DCJS general instructors
• Submit a training request Blue Team entry that includes your reason/need/desire for instructor certification, a verification of your general instructor status, recognition that you will be asked to instruct future mandatory training and that your supervisor(s) are willing to allow you to assist, and an understanding that you will meet the DCJS requirements to become a control tactics instructor and maintain certifications within the allotted time.

This eight-hour course provides officers with the practical skills needed to testify effectively. Participants will learn effective methods of testifying, gain a solid understanding of courtroom processes and procedures, and discover how to build rapport with judges and juries while protecting their personal credibility.

Effective courtroom testimony by law enforcement officials is a must in today’s world of case prosecution. Successful case outcomes often depend on a law enforcement officer’s ability to present clear, confident, and credible testimony before a judge or jury. However, most officers receive little formal training in this critical area.

Expert witness testimony can greatly influence the outcome of a trial. The course will also cover expert witness qualifications and limitations. Additionally, officers will learn to recognize and counter common tactics used by defense attorneys. To reinforce these skills, the course concludes with a hands-on practical session, giving participants the opportunity to engage in mock testimony.

• LOCATION: Department of Forensic Science (DFS), Manassas
• MATERIALS: Bring pen and paper

This four-hour course is for personnel who were unable to complete their CPR re-certification for the previous calendar year.

• There is a four-hour morning session and a four-hour afternoon session. You need only attend one of them.

The use of covert techniques by law enforcement agencies is a vital part of protecting the public from crime. This four-day, “hands-on” training course immerses the attendees into street-observation scenarios, realistically simulating surveillance techniques such as drug dealing, burglaries, robberies, and other crimes. Attendees will be immersed into realistic street-level situations to gain experience and knowledge by conducting actual physical surveillance on foot, in a vehicle, in stores and elsewhere. Surveillance scenarios range from easy to difficult to intense.

• Course will be 0800-1600 the first two days; it will be 1500-2300 hours the second two days
• Location will be in the WDS classroom

This 40-hour core CIT course is designed to educate and prepare personnel, who come into contact with people suffering from mental illnesses, on how to recognize the signs and symptoms of these illnesses and to respond effectively and appropriately to individuals in crisis.

• Eligibility: Open to all sworn law enforcement personnel, excluding probationary members.
• Location: Western District Station

The Greater Prince William Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) will be presenting a two-day course designed for sworn personnel who have previously attended the 40-hour CIT basic course. The training is designed to expound upon information and techniques presented during the basic CIT class. The August course will consist of presentations to assist students in recognizing the signs and symptoms of and responding effectively to persons in crisis related to various situations involving juveniles and suicide intervention.  Attendees will receive training to refresh skills and participate in activities related to active listening, verbal de-escalation, four coaching plays, and will participate in case study discussion. Officers trained in CIT are skilled at de-escalating situations involving persons in crisis, while bringing an element of understanding and compassion to these difficult situations.

• Eligibility: Open to all sworn law enforcement personnel who have previously attended the 40-hour Basic CIT course.
• Location: Western District Station

The Greater Prince William Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) will be presenting a one-day CIT Refresher Course designed for sworn personnel who attended a CIT 40-hour Basic course more than two years ago. The training is designed to refresh and prepare personnel who come into contact with Persons In Crisis to recognize the signs and symptoms of illnesses and to respond effectively and appropriately. Attendees will receive training to refresh skills and participate in activities related to Active Listening, Verbal De-escalation, Four Coaching plays, etc. Officers will receive updated information on current resources available to them for Persons in Crisis. Officers trained in CIT are skilled at de-escalating crises while bringing an element of understanding and compassion to these difficult situations.

• Eligibility: Open to all sworn law enforcement personnel who have previously attended the 40-hour Basic CIT course more than two years ago.
• Location: Western District Station (location subject to change)

This course addresses responses in a hazardous environment, with emphasis on evidence collection and recovery. Participants will learn the knowledge, skills and abilities to investigate a hazardous environment crime scene (as defined by the International Association for Identification's crime scene certification board). Hazards include chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, high-yield explosive (CBRNE), and toxic industrial chemical. Please see the email from Yoselin Ricaldi (dated 1/29/26) with instructions on how to register.

This two-week course provides the student with the basic knowledge and skills of police photography, along with basic instruction on the systematic approach to crime-scene processing: scene identification and security; crime-scene documentation using photographs, notes, and sketches; evidence recognition; proper evidence collection, packaging and preservation techniques; and evidence submission for scientific examination. Instruction includes both classroom and hands-on exercises, culminating in a critiqued investigation of a mock crime scene.

• Eligibility: Open to all sworn law enforcement personnel.
• Location: Forensic Services Section (location subject to change)

This four-hour course reinforces selected topics concerning crime scene documentation and evidence collection presented during the basic Crime Scene Technician School. Participants will be presented with any new information and techniques in the field of crime scene investigation. The course will consist of discussion and practical exercises. All PWCPD Crime Scene Technicians must attend one CST Refresher course per calendar year. All classes will be held at Forensic Services.

• Eligibility: Open to current Crime Scene Technicians and Fire Marshals.
• Location: Forensic Services Section (location subject to change)

This one-week course provides basic, fundamental training in the techniques, concepts, and methodologies of conducting criminal investigations. It will give participants a working knowledge of the Criminal Investigations Division and the roles of the detectives assigned to it. They will receive instruction on writing and obtaining search warrants and court orders, as well as interview and interrogation techniques. Participants will be able to use the skills and knowledge obtained from this course to take a criminal investigation from the street to the courtroom.

NOTES:

• Location: Charlie T. Deane Central District Station, Hall of Heroes
• Eligibility: Open to Patrol officers who aspire to become detectives, although preference is given to newly assigned detectives.

This course is designed to enhance the interdiction skills of law enforcement officers, focusing on identifying individuals involved in criminal activity while in transit. The training provides comprehensive instruction in detection techniques, current smuggling trends and officer-safety practices.

NOTES

• Location: DFS Building, 10820 Pyramid Place, Manassas
• Eligibility: Open only to sworn law enforcement personnel

This training focuses on the Northern Virginia Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT), including this Department's standard on how cases should be investigated. It is highly recommended for anyone involved in, or supporting, critical incident investigations. Participants will: gain a clear understanding of CIRT's origin, purpose and staffing; learn about the activation protocol for CIRT; receive an overview of the CIRT investigative process; understand the standards and expectations for how critical incidents are investigated; and review critical incident cases.

• Location: Charlie T. Deane Central District Station, Hall of Heroes
• Eligibility: Sworn law enforcement personnel

**Please refer to the email from Adrieana Kang, dated Oct. 29, 2025, for information on registering for this course!**

Participants will learn how to manually track cryptocurrency transactions using free public blockchain explorers. Several case studies will be presented to demonstrate methods to initiate a cryptocurrency investigation from start to finish, and in-depth practical exercises will be offered. There are three (3) steps needed to attend, and each must be completed. These steps are outlined in the email from Adrieana Kang.

• Eligibility: Open to sworn law enforcement personnel.

Everyday officers must make crucial and time-sensitive decisions. Good decision-making skills are one of the most important skills an officer or deputy must possess. This class explores the concepts of making “normal”, “complex”, and “critical incidents” decisions as well as how to improve one’s current decision-making skills. Officers learn that decision making is a process and that it involves a framework. Time, distance, and risk add to how decisions are made. The class will review several case studies that help to illustrate the teaching points. Poor decisions can have serious consequences. Participants in this class will be placed in a position where they must make hard, time crunched decisions. The exercises will build confidence and develop one’s decision-making skills.

• Eligibility: Open to all sworn law enforcement personnel.

This course is for employees who deal with chaotic situations faced by public servants. While it is relevant for sworn law enforcement, it also benefits any employees whose work involves community interactions. Topics include real-world communication tactics, promoting a professional image, building rapport, reducing liabilities, behavioral influence, and tactical communications and strategies. 

This training provides law enforcement officers with an introductory overview of domestic terror indicators and criminally subversive sub-cultures they may encounter. It explains violent extremism and covers a wide range of ideologies and groups as well as their use of social media for recruitment and propaganda. Participants will learn to recognize symbols and ideologies associated with racially-motivated and other forms of violent extremism, anticipate dynamics during encounters with ideologically-motivated individuals, conduct safe and thorough investigations, and train fellow officers on recruitment tactics and social media platforms. The course also introduces best practices for using community resources to prevent and counter radicalization to violent extremism.

This 40-hour course is the first step in becoming a DCJS Certified Driver Training (EVOC) Instructor. You must be a certified General Instructor prior to becoming an EVOC Instructor. Students MUST attend every hour of this course to meet DCJS requirements. 
 
Due to limited seating and great demand, the Academy Director will make the final selection of those accepted to attend the course. Those wishing to attend must provide the following:

 A memorandum to the Academy Director, through your command chain and with your supervisor's endorsement, to the Academy training request link in Blue Team. The endorsement should include: 

• The reason or need for the instructor certification
• An understanding that you will be asked to instruct future mandatory training and that your supervisors are willing to allow you to assist
• An understanding that you will meet the DCJS requirements to become an instructor and maintain certification within the allotted time.

Eligibility: Sworn Personnel w/General Instructor certification

Location: EVOC Facility

The goal of this course is to help front-line first responders and emergency management personnel to recognize and assess an unmanned aircraft event for a potential threat, and to give basic awareness of how to assess and mitigate that threat. This course provides class participants with the knowledge and tools necessary to detect, identify, and track, as well as assess, mitigate, and respond to commercial and hobbyist unmanned aircraft operations in the United States. This course will provide first responders with mitigation and response techniques to use if they determine that an unmanned aircraft is operating in an unsafe or illegal fashion. The DART course also alerts the participants to the possible terrorist use of unmanned aircraft and enables them to understand the dangers represented by terrorist uses of unmanned aircraft.

• Eligibility: Open to all law enforcement and Fire and Rescue personnel
• Location:  Department of Forensic Science Building /Classrooms 1 and 2

This two-day course presents information on basic drug identification and the cutting agents commonly associated with major drugs. Often, criminals do not conceal these cutting agents. Up-to-date drug trends and packaging materials will also be discussed. Search and seizure case law as it relates to drug investigations is continually evolving. Officers will receive the most current court rulings that affect narcotics investigations. Consent searches are the backbone of many interdiction units and learning how to legally obtain consent can provide solid evidence of guilt when narcotics are discovered as a result. Various tips and techniques will be covered during this block of instruction. Concealment methods used by drug dealers are becoming increasingly complex, and this course will provide information on identifying hidden compartments and common locations for concealment. Detecting unusual driving behavior within seconds as a vehicle passes can be challenging. Understanding behavioral analysis is essential.

• LOCATION: Department of Forensic Science (DFS), Manassas

This class provides education and training on the latest in emerging drug trends across the greater Washington, D.C., metropolitan area and the Baltimore, Md., metropolitan area. Learn what these threats look like, their manufacturing techniques, trafficking routes, how to safely assess the drugs, and how to detect and identify them using various means.

• Eligibility: Sworn and professional staff from PWCPD, PWCSO, and PWCADC
• Location: Department of Forensic Science, 10850 Pyramid Place, Manassas, VA 20110
• Other: Lunch will be provided

The Control Tactics Unit is hosting a basic ERD Operator course for sworn officers desiring to become a Taser Operator. This is an 8-hour certification course which includes classroom lecture, familiarization exercises, scenarios, and a written exam. Students are required to pass all exams and attend all hours of this training to be certified. Additionally, there is online pre-course work that will be assigned and must be completed PRIOR to attending the training.

• Eligibility: Open to all sworn law enforcement personnel. 

This two-day course provides a clear and practical introduction to estate planning and why it matters for you and your family. Participants will gain a foundational understanding of the probate process, incapacity planning, asset titling, beneficiary designations, and the role of revocable living trusts and fiduciaries. The course also covers key elements of retirement planning, including Social Security, Medicare, insurance considerations, and post-retirement healthcare options. Additional topics include strategies for protecting your assets from divorce, death, and creditors, as well as guidance on exploring second-career opportunities after retirement.

• ELIGIBILITY: Open to all sworn and professional staff

This class uses remedial EVOC training to reinforce positive skills taught in basic training, knowledge, and behavior for any law enforcement employee who has been involved in a crash. This remedial training is customized to the individual student’s deficiency following a brief review of the collision. After we determine why the students are attending this class, we will prescribe exercises for which he or she will most benefit. We have a variety of exercises that we will cover to ensure we target any issues that may arise due to speed, backing, and inattention. Exercises may vary with each group of students but topics such as below 100, distracted driving, the code of Virginia, and defensive driving will be covered in every class.

• Eligibility: Open to all sworn law enforcement personnel in need of remedial training.

This joint training class with NVCJA is designed for agency personnel operating police vehicles designed for emergency driving. The course emphasizes all aspects of safe vehicle operation and provides skills to enhance the student's abilities in vehicle dynamics during emergency and non-emergency vehicle operations.

• Eligibility: Open to all sworn law enforcement personnel.

Organizational success depends on the ability to attract and retain its greatest asset -- its personnel. This class prepares attendees and Department leaders to generate insights, inspire action, drive positive change, and achieve exceptional results

LOCATION: Department of Forensic Services, 10850 Pyramid Place, Manassas, VA 20110

This four-day certification course introduces the new Field Training Officer (FTO) to leadership, coaching, and feedback skills necessary to bring the officer in training to solo-duty status. This course involves student activities needed to work in stressful one-on-one training environments. The methodology targets varied individual-based training approaches to enable the FTO to maximize valuable field training time, understand and overcome training challenges, and allow the trainee to learn at the appropriate individual pace. Throughout the week, the FTO will also be exposed to mandated requirements associated with field training, documentation and related legal matters. Students should bring either a laptop or MDC to the training. This training is a required course to become an FTO, although completion of the course does not guarantee an FTO position with the Police Department.

• Eligibility: Open to all sworn law enforcement personnel.

This 40-hour course is the first step in becoming a DCJS-certified firearms instructor. The course introduces students to the fundamentals of firearms safety, course development, and the coaching and evaluating of firearms students. Students MUST attend every hour of this course to meet DCJS requirements. Students will need an endorsement that should include: the reason or need for instructor certification; an understanding that you will be asked to instruct future mandatory training and that your supervisors are willing to allow you to assist; and an understanding that you will meet the DCJS requirements to become an instructor and maintain certification within the allotted time.

• Eligibility: Open to all sworn law enforcement personnel with General Instructor certification.
• Note: Pre-requisites are that potential students must already have completed the general instructor course; potential students must have shot a 225 or better for the past two years; and, if selected to attend, students are required to shoot a 225 or better on the first day of training.

This training is a multi-disciplinary training focused on providing command-level skills to frontline law enforcement, Fire/EMS, and emergency communications supervisors as well as those who may act in those positions during an active-violence incident. The training leverages high-threat events to demonstrate best practice approaches to coordinated operations among the response disciplines, focusing specifically on the first 30 minutes of an incident.

• NOTE: Please register via this link, then contact K. Walmsley at the PWCCJA. 
• Open to sworn law enforcement personnel, Fire/EMS, and Public Safety Communications 

**Please refer to the email from Keith Walmsley, dated Oct. 29, 2025, for information on registering for this course!**"

Force encounters analysis" uses the science of human performance to better inform the often-misunderstood aspects of high risk, rapidly evolving situations. Using case studies and video analysis, attendees are led through in-depth discussions of the key human factors associated with use of force. The goal of this course is to improve human performance during critical incidents, and enhance investigations. The training is designed to increase attendees' understanding of how human factors challenge an officer's ability to effectively address dangerous situations.

This is a one-day course designed to provide an understanding of the types of examinations the forensic laboratory can perform to assist hit and run investigations. This course will cover the recognition, collection and preservation of paint, plastics, glass, hairs, fibers, vehicle lamps and biological fluids. The analysis of each of these types of materials will be presented to provide the investigator with an understanding of the corresponding potential value in an investigation. This course is designed for police officers, detectives, crime scene technicians and Commonwealth’s Attorneys who are involved with the investigation of hit and run and other offenses involving automobiles. There will be practical exercises involving the collection and evaluation of materials from automobiles.

• Eligibility: Open to all sworn law enforcement personnel.

Forensics training is crucial for solving crimes because it provides law enforcement personnel with the scientific expertise to objectively analyze evidence, connect suspects to crime scenes, and exonerates the innocent. Proper training ensures the integrity of evidence, enhances accuracy and keeps investigators up to date with evolving technologies and legal standards, thus leading to more successful prosecutions and resolutions for cases. Topics include: identification of evidence and its preservation, maintenance and recovery; blood-stain pattern analysis; crime scene reconstruction, entomology and how it can assist with determining time of death; ghost-gun identification; and coping mentally with death investigations.

• Location: Department of Forensic Science in Manassas

This course teaches the skills and principles needed to be a great leader, not only to yourself, but to those around you. The workshop is a hands-on, interactive experience that will help you hone and develop the necessary leadership skills to get you to the next level.

This awareness-level course presents participants with the core capabilities required for intelligence personnel from an all-crimes, all-hazards perspective. It encompasses traditional crimes, domestic and international acts of terrorism, and other potential crises. This course introduces entry-level intelligence personnel to intelligence and distinguishes between intelligence and information.

This course provides law enforcement officers with knowledge of the covert methods of communication used by gang members in correctional facilities, and in other situations. Participants will learn how to look for patterns that help to decode confiscated documents, among other useful matters.

• Location: Department of Forensic Science, 10850 Pyramid Place, Manassas, VA 20110
• Register here

This 40-hour course is the first step in becoming a DCJS-certified General Instructor. This course introduces students to the fundamentals of course design, basic facilitation skills and techniques to manage a classroom. The focus of this course is to learn to apply 21st-century adult-learning concepts in law enforcement training and to create comprehensive lesson plans that will meet and exceed Virginia Department of Criminal Justice standards. This is accomplished by breaking down the creative and instructional process into smaller segments of material and repeatedly practicing the concepts in different individual and group exercises. Scenario training, use of role playing, technology and other concepts will be delivered and practiced throughout the course in order to provide the most comprehensive experience for new law enforcement instructors. At the end of the course students will present their own topic from a lesson plan they complete during the course.

• Eligibility: Personnel requiring DCJA instructor certification. This is MANDATORY certification prior to any specialty instructor certifications (EVOC, firearms, CT, Taser, speed measurement, CPR, SFST)
• NOTE: Students MUST attend every hour of this course to meet DCJS requirements. Students must bring a laptop/MDC to class. 

This one-day, eight-hour course will cover how to safely use and maintain your weapon.

• Eligibility: Open to all sworn law enforcement personnel.
• NOTE: The class has a fee of $250 per student.

This course provides first responders with information on general explosive characteristics and hazards, homemade explosive precursor materials, homemade explosive manufacturing indicators, and Improvised Explosive Device (IED) components. Additionally, the course teaches first responders how to identify a homemade explosive laboratory and how to establish scene safety and security in such an incident. First responders are also presented with information regarding community awareness and education programs related to homemade explosives. This information better prepares first responders to recognize hazards associated with homemade explosives during response operations.

• Eligibility: Open to all law enforcement and Fire and Rescue personnel

This training is the same course that is provided to the DEA, the U.S. Department of State and numerous law enforcement agencies throughout the nation. The class covers the direct correlation between human trafficking and all levels of narcotics investigations, from street level to transnational trafficking. The instructor will provide a QR code with a link for fillable templates for use for warrant requests, preservation letters, service provider guidelines, OSINT resources and FINCEN requests. 

• Eligibility: Open to all sworn law enforcement, members of the Office of the Commonwealth's Attorney, and members of the judicial branch
• Location: Department of Forensic Science, 10850 Pyramid Place, Manassas, VA 20110

This four-hour course will provide the participants with an understanding and awareness of the illicit fentanyl crisis and drug poisonings, as well as a plan of action for investigating these incidents.

NOTES

• Location: MOD 2

This Improvised Explosive Device (IED) course introduces the participant to basic, low-risk search protocols, providing opportunities to perform various IED types of searches. Participants will receive the information needed to create an IED search plan. NOTE: Please see the course announcement email (dated Jan. 29, 2025) for registration information.

This course presents information on suicide bomber recognition and appropriate response categories, including tactical response. This course is designed to prepare public safety personnel to recognize the threat of an active suicide bomber through the recognition of Suicide Bomber Improvised Explosive Device (SBIED) components and suicide bomber behavioral indicators. The course provides multiple response strategies to effectively interdict a suicide bomber. Additionally, the course teaches public safety personnel how to establish response priorities when responding to a suicide bombing post-blast scene, given the unique hazards associated with such an incident.

• Eligibility: Open to all law enforcement and Fire and Rescue personnel

This is the only course in detecting deception on the market that teaches Behavioral Analysis (BA) and Forensic Statement Analysis (FSA). This unique seminar improves your ability to successfully obtain court-accepted confessions in a nonconfrontational manner. Students will learn how to react to deceptive behavior by employing the 3-strike rule, the verbal lie detector, and the ultimate power question. Students will also identify the 16 evasive verbal responses and ultimately obtain the confession.

• Eligibility: Open to sworn law enforcement personnel
• Location: DFS, 10850 Pyramid Place, Manassas, VA 20110

Intoximeters law enforcement training provides officers with operating knowledge of the instrument as well as information about accuracy checks and calibrations. Classes are instrument-specific and are offered on both screening and evidential equipment. Factory training is intended to improve proficiency by offering general knowledge about operation, test protocols, quality assurance testing and sampling techniques for the specific instrument model on which you are being trained.

• Time(s): Day One: 1300-1700/ Day Two: 0800-1700/ Day Three: 0800-1200 
• Location: Department of Forensic Science, BioTech 8, 737 N. 5th Street, Richmond, VA
• Available Seats: Limited

This class provides students with a clear understanding of expectations for death investigations, and teaches effective investigative tactics and methods. The course also establishes a framework that can be applied to any type of investigation. Students will apply classroom knowledge in practical exercises to better understand and handle death investigations. This class is highly encouraged for all CSTs to attend.

This four-day course is designed to instruct the students how to properly decoy for a police K-9. The student will learn how to properly decoy for a police K-9 utilizing a soft bite sleeve, barrel sleeve, and the bite suit. This is a basic decoy class that will lay the groundwork for the higher-level decoy training. 

• Eligibility: Open to all sworn law enforcement personnel.
• NOTE: times vary depending on weather.

Knock and Talk operations, when conducted properly, can be a very successful tactic to combat illegal criminal activity. This intense training course provides in-depth information and proper techniques and tactics for officers to conduct knock and talks. One of the most difficult aspects of conducting knock and talk operations is gaining voluntary consent to enter a residence and conduct a search. This course starts with the initial approach to the residence, knocking on the door, and the tone and demeaner presented by officers. There are numerous court cases that dictate proper ways to carry out knock and talk actions. The Fourth Amendment of the Constitution governs illegal search and seizures; officers must have a clear understanding of current case law to conduct knock and talk operations legally. In recent years, several knock & talk operations have turned into deadly encounters. Officers must conduct preoperational briefings and cover all tactical considerations prior to initiating a knock & talk operation.

• Eligibility: Open to all sworn law enforcement personnel.

This course prepares students to be able to operate an LPR-equipped cruiser and access the LPR database. By the end of the course participants will be able to: determine the validity of LPR hits; operate an LPR-equipped cruiser within Department SOPs; use and justify the use of the LPR database; react within SOPs to a simulated LPR hit; and identify that LPR hits do not legally justify a traffic stop.

The business environment is always changing and, in order to excel, every leader needs to make ongoing "leadershifts" -- changes that positively enhance personal and organizational growth. This course reviews the 11 "leadershifts" that will help you position yourself for future success.

• Eligibility: Open to all Prince William County Police Department members

This course covers advanced search and seizure techniques as well as Interview and Interrogation methods for patrol officers.

• Eligibility: Open to all sworn law enforcement personnel.

This class is for any law enforcement officer whose duties include electronic evidence. Topics include basic concepts in the law of electronic evidence searches, the Fourth Amendment and electronic evidence, device seizures and the timing of search warrants, writing effective search warrants for digital devices, legal process under federal and state code, and much more.

• Eligibility: Open to all sworn law enforcement personnel.

This course covers the principles of effective report writing including documenting use of force, documenting interpersonal violence, exculpatory evidence & Brady issues, practical applications and courtroom evaluations.

• Eligibility: Open to all sworn law enforcement personnel

This course fulfills the 4 hours of legal training required by every two years as part of in-service training.

• Eligibility: open to all sworn law enforcement personnel.

This course is designed to certify police officers on the use of the less-lethal shotgun. Topics include its use, Department policy, deployment, and less-lethal practical applications. There will be two four-hour sessions per training date. Interested officers must get supervisor approval to attend. Use this link to sign up.

• Safety Reminders: Please refrain from wearing a bright red shirt or bright red hat during training.
• All weapons will be cleared of ammunition in a clearing barrel at the entrance to the Range facility
• All students’ weapons must be clear, with no magazine in the magazine well, the slide locked to the rear, and in their holsters prior to entering the building.
• No one will be permitted to attend this course if they arrive after the scheduled start time. All students must attend the range safety briefing.

ALL STUDENTS MUST MEET AT THE SCENARIO BASED TRAINING CENTER (SBTC). TRAINING OCCURS ON THE BUS WHILE EN ROUTE TO THE BATTLEFIELD.

THE BUS WILL LEAVE PROMPTLY AT 0700. WEAR COMFORTABLE CLOTHING AND SHOES AS THERE WILL BE WALKING INVOLVED. LUNCH WILL BE PROVIDED.

This interactive, day-long course takes the classroom to the field with a visit to the Antietam National Battlefield. The instructor will identify and illustrate key leadership characteristics through the historical actions of actual Civil War leaders. The interactive discussion also demonstrates the importance and impact of effective communication, decision-making and teamwork, using both positive and negative examples. The actions that they took and the result that followed serve as powerful, moving lessons for those in positions of leadership today. Led by Paul Marcone, this promises to be a great day on the battlefields!

(Please note that the return time to the SBTC at 1600, is an approximation dependent on traffic and how long is spent at the Battlefield, so each participant is encouraged to plan accordingly).
 

• LOCATION: SBTC, 7751 Doane Dr, Manassas
• Open to ALL Police Department personnel

This one-day course is designed to provide law enforcement supervisors and command personnel with the information and tools needed to manage a large-scale critical incident. This course will include a NIMS review, but the focus of the course is providing the tools for supervisors and command personnel to succeed when responding to active threats. The roles and responsibilities of the Incident Commander will be discussed and applied through practical group exercises. Command decision-making through a proven system that streamlines the flow of direction and information will be a central focus of this course.

• Eligibility: Open to all sworn law enforcement personnel.

This course introduces first responders who may be involved in the medical response to an explosive incident to real-world event case studies and research-based information designed to enhance the medical preparedness for and response to blast effects. This course includes a management and planning-level section focused on pre-incident indicators of bombing incidents, bombing incident scene safety and security, and resource management for bombing incidents. The course also includes a performance-level section focused on bombing incident injury patterns and treatment; managing the medical response for bombing incidents; and the planning, training, and exercise cycle for bombing incidents. Please register online using image below.

Image

This class exposes officers to a career’s worth of critical incidents and hostage events in an eight-hour classroom training session. It takes a deep dive into the longtime law enforcement “priorities of life” principle. These priorities can be applied to all critical incidents in which officers respond. This course will provide attendees with a simple and effective method to quickly determine the appropriate course of action. While not a tactics class, students will be given strategies and examples that have been proven to enhance success during emergency hostage rescues. Real world bodycam incidents will be discussed in detail and applied to the presented decision-making model. This class is designed to improve critical incident decision making for all ranks and levels of officer experience.

• NOTE: Officers should bring their duty belts and wear a long-sleeved shirt or bring a sweater.

This five-day course will certify members in the use of the Department-issued patrol rifle. All members must achieve qualifying scores on all required courses in order to be certified. All members must attend all training hours and be on time each day. You cannot be late for training.

• Eligibility: Open to all sworn law enforcement personnel.
• Location: SBTC facility
• NOTE: Bring ALL Duty gear to include duty gun, duty belt and vest. An old hoodie and gloves are also recommended. Please refrain from wearing a RED hat or clothing.

This eight-hour course will re-certify members in the use of the Department-issued patrol rifle. All patrol rifle operators now re-certify once each year. All members must achieve qualifying scores on all required courses in order to be certified. All members must attend all training hours and be on time each day. You cannot be late for training.

• Eligibility: Open to all sworn law enforcement personnel.
• Location: SBTC facility
• NOTES:

  Bring ALL Duty gear to include rifle, duty gun, duty belt, vest, and rifle mag pouch (if issued). Please refrain from wearing red clothing or hats.

  All weapons must be UNLOADED prior to entering the classroom.

  Student cannot be late. If the “Safety Briefing” is missed, you will not be allowed to attend the training.

  Students will need to pack lunch and bring water.

This two-hour course provides education on the metabolic changes that occur under the above-mentioned conditions, allows time for discussion, and reviews lifestyle strategies to implement. With an understanding that many of the inherent work conditions of law enforcement cannot be altered or controlled, this call to action will focus on the individual and the small changes that can be made to create a healthier routine. Topics covered include understanding the physiological responses to circadian misalignment (i.e., shift work), chronic stress and natural hormonal changes as we get older and the metabolic impact from these compounding factors. Understanding how these factors interact and how lifestyle choices can either positively or negatively influence the risk of chronic conditions, injuries and impaired cognition.

NOTES:

1. This training is in coordination with the Women’s Mentorship Program and is open to sworn and professional (civilian) staff of the Police Department, the Sheriff’s Office and the Adult Detention Center.
2. Location is the Charlie T. Deane Central District Station, Hall of Heroes.
3. To sign up for the course, please refer to the Feb. 4, 2025, email course announcement.

This one-day course trains the Primary Screener to perform a preliminary radiological assessment with a Personal Radiation Detector (PRD). Skills taught include operating a PRD to detect radiation, locate a source, measure radiation levels, assess the threat status of a situation, categorize threats, and adjudicate alarms.

Choose the day you will attend and please use the Sign-Up Genius link below:

• Eligibility: Open to all sworn law enforcement personnel.
• NOTE: Recommended Prerequisites AWR-140 or AWR-140-W Awareness and Response to Radiological/Nuclear Incidents

This two-hour course introduces participants to machine-gun conversion devices (MCDs). The class provides hands-on and video instruction of “switches” that can make a handgun automatic in less than a minute, as these devices are being encountered more often these days. The purpose of this course is to assist officers/detectives to know what they look like and how they operate. DCJS has approved credit for this class.  

• NOTE: The course is mainly geared for detectives but anyone who is interested is welcome to attend, including prosecutors.  
   

How do sex offenders get into situations where they can exploit children? The offenders range from acquaintances committing these offenses to strangers. This workshop will help identify the strategies these offenders use to neutralize their threat, manipulate a situation and create an environment fostered by trust. Some of the behavioral warning signs and grooming techniques will be discussed, along with the use of rationalizations and blaming, interview pitfalls and strategies and what children and parents can do. The course will include case reviews and consultation of local cases so that participants return from the training with a more concrete understanding of the application of the materials.

Eligibility: Open to all sworn staff

This course will provide participants with the foundational principles of course-content development and design, and the requisite skills to successfully and effectively present the material to learners. The course will focus on four main presentation delivery platforms and how they can enhance student learning and delivery. The student will be offered the foundational elements of effective communication in the learning environment.  The concepts of guided learning and facilitating will be discussed and the learner will be challenged to identify the pros and cons of each approach.  The importance of non-verbal skills and body language that will lead the participant to constantly refine and hone their instructional craft.

NOTES:

• Students are encouraged to bring their own laptop for use during the introduction and presentation on platform usage so as to follow along with the instructor in a brief overview of the design platforms.
• To follow along with the platform demonstrations during the course, established login accounts MUST be created prior to class for Prezi, Canva, and Google Slides.
• Students will require Microsoft capability to follow along with PowerPoint. Mac users can follow along on the very similar Mac platform KeyNote, if they choose.
• Supervisor approval is needed to register for this course.

This class -- taking the concepts of community policing and community interaction to the next level with real-world examples, successes and failures as well as what law enforcement can do to reinforce your officers in the communities they serve -- explores the concepts of proactive patrol. The class focuses on officer safety as well as developing “Communities of Trust.”

• Eligibility: Open to all sworn law enforcement personnel and civil process/court security/jail officer/inmate security.

With a culture that rewards getting the job done, and a consistent system for getting the right people in the right jobs, the foundation is in place for operating and managing each of the core processes effectively. This course reviews the seven essential behaviors that are key to successful project management.

• Eligibility: Open to all Prince William County Police Department members
• LOCATION: Department of Forensic Services, 10850 Pyramid Place, Manassas, VA 20110

This two-day course provides insight and practical application for the public-safety professional in public speaking. It is designed for those professionals who play an active role in the Department and/or community and seek to communicate more effectively. Whether preparing to become an instructor or simply having the desire to enhance communication skills, this class will increase the ability of the public-safety professional to speak confidently and provide more effective communication. The main emphasis will stress the importance of connection to the community by making a lasting impact through effective communication.

This course is designed to ensure a quality presentation of the principles of purpose-driven leadership. Purpose-driven leaders place an emphasis on their values and purpose while making decisions and formulating strategies to effectively lead. This course provides two days of insightful principles that will help guide the student and the agency to a common purpose moving forward. The seven guiding principles covered in the course are: initiate activity; lead with a mission in mind; prioritize personnel; find common ground; be a great communicator; build a strong culture; and, personal and professional well being.

• Eligibility: open to all sworn law enforcement personnel.

This course prepares first responders to use the proper safety techniques while investigating, or responding to, a grade A crossing collision or a trespasser incident, in addition to maintaining on-scene safety unique to the railroad environment. This four-hour training is available at no cost to police officers, and other first responders, to more effectively and safely manage such incidents including: taking proper steps to ensure the rail scene is clear; documentation of rail incidents on state crash reporting forms; how train incidents may affect the community and support for prosecution; and Operation Lifesaver and Federal Railroad Administration safety education programs.

• Eligibility: Sworn law enforcement, fire and EMS personnel

This course covers the principles of effective report writing, including use-of-force documentation, elements of crimes, exculpatory evidence, practical applications regarding testimony, Brady issues, and courtroom evaluations.

Law enforcement officers are called upon at times to exercise their unique power to use deadly force, considering the facts and circumstances confronting them. Recently the use of deadly force by law enforcement officers has become arguably the most visible public policy issue. The use of deadly force by an officer is the most momentous decision an officer will ever make during a career. Interest in officers’ use of deadly force includes attention to how officers make the decision to use their firearms during encounters with a suspect. During this training officers shall explore the science of deadly force, tactics, legal and policy issues, as well as hear from officers who have been involved in using deadly force incidents. Participants will examine lessons learned from several deadly force incidents as well as explore a number of firsthand interviews conducted of police officers who have been involved in deadly force incidents. Special guest speakers include medical doctors; an independent police monitor; an internal affairs investigator; a deputy chief; and several law enforcement officers who have been involved in deadly force incidents.

• Eligibility: Open to patrol officers, detectives, supervisors, command staff, training and firearms instructors, and other law enforcement personnel  
• **NOTE LOCATION CHANGE**: WDS / Training Room

This class will cover the basics of obtaining and executing a search warrant at the patrol and new detective level. Instructors will provide a classroom presentation that covers case law, general orders, the Virginia state code, learned/developed techniques, and examples of search warrants. Scenario-based training will also be used in which the students will have an opportunity to develop probable cause to obtain a search warrant and write a search warrant. 

• Note: Students will need an MDC or personal laptop computer for the class.

This course provides a foundation of leadership concepts for senior officers in the Prince William County Police Department. It lays out the expectations the Department has for its senior officers in addressing problems and achieving objectives, and gives multiple tools to aid leadership in situations common to this Department.

• Eligibility: Open to officers with four or more years in the Department.

Social networking is a crucial aspect of combatting crime in the 21st century. As technology continues to evolve, law enforcement must also evolve with the tech. This course helps bring officers and investigators up to speed with new tech trends and give them practical and applicable tools to conduct online investigations. Uniformed officers can immediately benefit from this course as well as detectives and crime analysts.

• Eligibility: Open to sworn and professional staff members of the Police Department, the Sheriff's Office and the Adult Detention Center
• Location: MOD 1 & 2 at the PWCCJA

This refresher training is an eight-hour class for law enforcement officers who have successfully completed the NHTSA/IACP-approved DWI Detection and Standardized Field Sobriety Testing Training Program. The primary purpose this course is to improve the overall consistency of administration of the SFSTs by individual police officers. Officers can refresh their skills by:

• Recognizing and interpreting evidence of DWI
• Administering and interpreting the scientifically validated sobriety tests
• Describing DWI evidence clearly and convincingly
• Reviewing information regarding recent case law

There will be a live alcohol workshop and a static traffic stop.

The course will instruct the officer in the use of RADAR and LIDAR, to include proper use, operating requirements, testing, and courtroom testimony. 

• Eligibility: Open to sworn law enforcement personnel
• Location: PWCCJA MOD 1 (September 2025 course) | PWCCJA EVOC #108 (December 2025 course)
• NOTE: Students must attend all hours of training. The fourth day is held in the evening hours (1400-2200).

The RADAR re-certification is four hours in the morning (8 a.m. to Noon) and the LIDAR re-certification is four hours in the afternoon (1 to 5 p.m.). Students are required to attend both sessions if they hold both a RADAR and LIDAR certification. Members MUST re-certify every three years.

• Eligibility: Open to all sworn law enforcement personnel currently certified in one or both devices.

This Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) course focuses on working with youth, school safety, school law, and in particular, the functions of School Resource Officers and school administrators in a PreK-12 school environment. This course is required for all law enforcement officers assigned as SROs to a Virginia public school and includes the following content mandated by the Code of Virginia: relevant state and federal laws; school and personal liability issues; security awareness in the school environment; mediation and conflict resolution, including de-escalation techniques; disaster and emergency response; awareness of systemic and individual racism, cultural diversity, and implicit bias; working with students with disabilities, mental health needs, substance use disorders, or past traumatic experiences; and student behavioral dynamics, including current child and adolescent development and brain research.

**Register using this link** 

• Eligibility: Open to current and aspiring School Resource Officers (SROs). Attendees must be a certified law enforcement officer. 
• This training fulfills the required training requirements to serve as a School Resource Officer. This course will allow interested members to work SRO Unit hire backs.

This unique and comprehensive one-day course is designed to equip law enforcement officers with the tools to navigate the complex challenges of the profession. The course is essential for any officer looking to strengthen resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity. Participants will learn how to manage stress, make sound decisions under pressure, and turn obstacles into opportunities. This course is suitable for all law enforcement officers -- regardless of experience level -- who are looking to enhance their abilities to handle the unpredictable, and often demanding, nature of their work.

This three-day, hands-on course provides the participants with six phases of interviewing and interrogating, as well as an introduction to statement analysis. The course is designed for active participation -- not a series of lectures. Participants conduct detecting deception and questioning exercises with their classmates and there are no role players. This training will enhance the skill set of even the most seasoned investigators.

Street gang activity is no longer confined to large metropolitan areas; smaller towns and suburban communities are increasingly experiencing gang-related violence at alarming rates. Gang members engage in a wide range of violent and non-violent criminal activities, both domestically and internationally. Law enforcement professionals must proactively investigate these crimes and develop effective strategies to dismantle these groups and organizations.

This two-day course is designed to equip officers with the knowledge, skills and practical experience necessary to identify and investigate criminal street gangs and hybrid gangs operating within their jurisdictions, as well as understand national gang trends occurring across the country. Participants will learn proven methods for identifying and recognizing gang members and gain insight into the motivations that drive individuals to join gangs. Instruction will cover the structure and leadership of some of the most violent gangs in America, along with current prosecution strategies that leverage multi-agency collaboration and intelligence-gathering techniques to reduce gang activity. Additionally, the course will address interdiction methods related to armed encounters, to better prepare the officer to win a potentially deadly confrontations with gang members on the streets.

• MATERIALS NEEDED: Pen and Paper
• LOCATION: Department of Forensic Science (DFS), Manassas, Va.
• ELIGIBILITY: Open to sworn law enforcement and crime analysts

The course provides steps and techniques that can be used to ensure effective stress management for law enforcement officers at all levels of policing. Understanding and using appropriate emotional intelligence is a key element in police matters and failure to do so has been identified as a root problem in a majority of police controversy. The ability for an officer to express and control their emotions is essential, but so is the ability to understand, interpret, and respond to the emotions of others. A law enforcement officer's ability to manage and use emotions effectively and positively is crucial for stress management and career survival while aiding in and helping establish positive community relations.

• Eligibility: Open to all sworn personnel, form patrol to command staff.

This new and innovative program, focused on post-traumatic growth, has proven effective for law enforcement agencies and other first responders. It has been successful in helping officers not only rebound from disturbing situations but also come back better and happier. Moreover, it offers prevention as well as intervention, helping officers gain the capacity to weather storms before they arise by providing skills and strategies to build strength and hope. The program is meant to enable participants to develop a plan for personal growth by transforming their struggle into strength through training. A second class, intended primarily for Department professional staff, will address the unique challenges of non-sworn law enforcement personnel. Please indicate which session you will attend. Lunch will be served, so please indicate if dietary restrictions or food allergies apply when registering.

• Location (May 12-13): Academy, MOD 1
• Location (May 14-15): Academy, MOD 1
• Eligibility (May 12-13): Sworn law enforcement personnel
• Eligibility (May 14-15): Professional staff AND sworn law enforcement personnel
• Instructor(s):  Boulder Crest Institute

This course provides patrol supervisors with the information and tools needed to manage a critical incident prior to SWAT's arrival. Understanding the methodology used in managing a dynamic tactical problem, the fundamentals of the incident command system, and the four primary types of critical incidents involving an adversary will give the patrol supervisor the tools needed to succeed in these events.

• Eligibility: Open to all sworn law enforcement personnel.

Students attending the school can expect five full days of training, approximately 10 hours each day. They should anticipate both mental and physical challenges and prepare accordingly. The course includes an overview of SWAT and SWAT operations, close quarters clearing techniques, hostage rescue operations, barricaded subjects, and familiarization with the deployment of noise flash diversionary devices and CS gas. The week will conclude with a day of scenario-based training where students will demonstrate the skills and tactics learned throughout the week.

• This class is currently not available/intended for the rank of Sgt or above.
• Members must successfully pass the SWAT physical fitness assessment for entry into the school. The assessment and standards consist of a minimum of 45 push-ups in one minute, a minimum of 45 sit-ups in one minute, a 1-mile run in 8:15 or under, and the completion of SWAT’s operational readiness test in 7:00 or under. Key components of the ORT include: conducted in ballistic vest and helmet, three pull-ups, 75-yard run, 15-yard dummy drag and tourniquet application, low crawl, 15-yard ram carry, 15-yard shield carry, target identification and engagement, 15-yard shield carry, 15-yard ram carry, low crawl, 15-yard dummy drag, 300-yard run.     
• Location is PWCCJA/ Academy Range and Shoot house

This course provides members with the knowledge and skills necessary for basic trailering and towing. The training provides general information and tips that can help when driving a tow vehicle and trailer as part of your official duties. The course gives the student basic information about factors to consider and equipment you will need to ensure your safety and that of your passengers, as well as the safety of others, while towing a trailer.

• Eligibility: Open to all sworn law enforcement personnel.

This course provides law enforcement professionals with a basic understanding of Mexican cartels and the threat they pose to both the U.S. and Mexico. Participants will receive a basic understanding of cartel history, operations, methods of drug distribution, and more. The course will also provide intelligence to aid in the disruption of cartel operations.

• Eligibility: Sworn and professional staff of the PWCPD, PWCSO, PWCADC

This course provides factually researched information that gives participants the background knowledge and tools to successfully deal with people in the most difficult of situations. Participants who complete this course will learn the essentials of effective communication and how to create win-win outcomes. They will also be introduced to cultural and generational barriers that affect positive interactions with law enforcement, as well as the successful outcomes in those interactions. Finally, participants will learn the nuts and bolts of confrontational encounters and how to respond effectively and appropriately.

• LOCATION: Department of Forensic Services, 10850 Pyramid Place, Manassas, VA 20110
• Open to ALL Police Department personnel

This VBIED course provides participants with the knowledge and skills to inspect for, identify, and/or respond to vehicle-borne explosive threats successfully and safely. NOTE: Please see the course announcement email (dated Jan. 29, 2025) for registration information.

This course shows how to recognize critical evidence and apply human-forensic techniques to investigations. Topics include crime scene analysis, evidence recognition, crime scene considerations for different types of cruelty investigations, forensic entomology, working with veterinarians and using thermal imaging.

Women law enforcement professionals play a vital role in police departments, sheriff departments, constable offices, correctional institutions, and probation/parole departments. Women not only serve on the front lines, but they hold executive positions to include police chiefs and elected sheriffs in major cities in the United States. Although women law enforcement officers are making major advancements, there are still challenges unique to them that exist. This course is designed from the woman law enforcement professional’s perspective.

Attendees will discuss challenges unique to women in law enforcement, specifically: gender differences, training, equipment, work-life balance, mental & physical strength, communication, and career advancement. Information will be presented to help female law enforcement professionals thrive in a male-dominated work environment. The course will facilitate open dialogue, and attendees will develop strategies to deal with issues and challenges specific to women in law enforcement.

• Eligibility: Open to all sworn law enforcement personnel.

Women undercover officers are essential to effectively combat prostitution-related crimes, illegal narcotics rings and organized crime syndicates. Except for prostitution stings, male undercover officers have been primarily used to infiltrate criminal organizations. As more women officers enter the profession, many jurisdictions are starting to recognize their true value as undercover officers. Techniques will be presented to maximize the use of women officers during undercover operations, and detailed case studies will be presented from successful previous operations.

• Eligibility: open to all sworn law enforcement personnel.