CRB Members Complete 30 Hours of Training

Citizen Review Board members recently completed the Cedar Rapids Police Department’s 30-hour training course as required by the Citizen Review Board Ordinance.

CRB members were exposed to several aspects of the Police Department. Topics covered included the structure of the Police Department, constitutional law, use of force, K-9 unit, Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) and de-escalation tactics, Crisis Negotiation Team, Professional Standards division, weapons systems, driving, and defense tactics. They had the opportunity to practice defense tactics on instructors and participated in police simulator scenarios such as welfare checks, domestic disturbances, and active shooter situations. During the simulator exercise, members were able to put into practice some of what they have been learning throughout the training course and experience the decision-making and various tactics that are necessary in the situations presented to them.

The training course enables the CRB members to gain insight into the Cedar Rapids Police Department’s practice, polices, and procedures and equips them with the basic knowledge to help them in their mission to further community relations and police accountability.

During the second part of their term, CRB members will conduct community outreach/gather public input, review police data and Chief’s reports from complaint investigations, and develop their long-term plan.