Sayre, OK – The Beckham County Sheriff's Office recently completed Taser certification and refresher training for nearly all of its field personnel, reinforcing the department's commitment to using force responsibly, legally, and only when necessary.
Sheriff Derek Manning said the training was made possible through the support of Bowtech in Sayre, which provided space for the session.
"I want to thank John Currid and the folks at (Western Technology Center) in Sayre for giving us the space and helping set this training up," Manning said.
The training covered more than simply operating a Taser. Deputies received instruction on state law, department policy, ethical considerations, and the proper decision making required before deploying a less lethal device.
"We try to stay trained up on all of our tools so that when we do need to use them, everybody knows how, when, and the legal and ethical ways to use those devices," Manning said. "We want to make sure we use only the force that is necessary and the force that gets the job done without going overboard."
Manning said Tasers remain an important option for deputies in the field, although they are not used as frequently as they once were.
"I don't see as much use of it as we used to," he said. "I'm not sure if that's because we've got other options available now or if the circumstances just haven't come up."
The sheriff noted that detention officers also carry Tasers inside the county jail but often rely on OC spray when additional force becomes necessary.
One of the advancements highlighted during the training was the department's newer training equipment, including a protective suit that allows officers to participate in realistic scenario based exercises using Velcro training cartridges that simulate an actual Taser deployment.
The department also utilizes Axon Taser systems that automatically activate an officer's body worn camera when the device is deployed.
"They're designed to set off the cameras," Manning explained. "That way you've got a recording without the officer having to stop and think about turning the body camera on."
While Manning oversees the department, he joked that he does not personally carry a Taser.
"I don't carry one. I never have," he said with a laugh. "If somebody needs tased, I just grab the nearest deputy."
Instead, Manning said he still carries the baton he used during his years with the Oklahoma Highway Patrol.
The sheriff emphasized that continuous training ensures deputies are prepared to respond professionally while protecting both officers and the public.
"It was good training for these guys," Manning said. "They all enjoyed having it."
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