Public Invited to Participate in Training Exercises with Trooper Recruits and Instructors

The Michigan State Police (MSP) is soliciting citizen volunteers who want to take part in scenario-based training with members of the 140th Trooper Recruit School and their instructors. The exercises will be held at the Fort Custer Training Center in Battle Creek Jan.10-12, 2022.

"We're looking for unique ways to bridge the gap with the people we serve," said Col. Joe Gasper, director of the MSP. "This is an excellent opportunity for residents to see how recruits are learning and practicing the skills they'll ultimately use on the job. This training opportunity will provide valuable insight to both the recruits and civilian participants."

The exercises simulate traffic stops with residents acting as drivers and passengers.

"This is the first time we'll be including members of the public in our training scenarios," said Capt. James Grady, commander of the MSP Training Division. "We want to offer our recruits as realistic and diverse training experiences as possible, and we see this opportunity as a win-win given that the civilian participants will gain a better understanding of how our troopers are trained to conduct traffic stops, which is the most common interaction civilians have with police officers."

To qualify, you must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver's license. Participants will be subject to a criminal background check, submit to a weapons search on-site and must sign a liability waiver.

Application can be made online. The deadline to apply is Dec. 17, 2021.

Space is limited and participants who are selected will receive a confirmation with additional instructions.