SAN ANTONIO – Cadets are entering the virtual world at the newly relocated AACOG Regional Law Enforcement Academy.
Very realistic and at times graphic scenarios are portrayed by actors as each cadet is surrounded by large screens. The program is controlled by an instructor.
Armed with modified Glock pistols for training purposes, the cadets are confronted by many of the future threats and situations that they will be facing.
Shots fired inside a school, suicidal or violent individuals and workplace violence are some of the scenarios involving split-second decisions.
Richard Bryan, the academy's manager, said that in today's world, cadets also must prepare for the abundance of cellphone videos, social media and body cameras.
Bryan said that's why cadets should focus on their training. If they don't, self-doubt could be costly.
"Knowing the experience, knowing what it feels like to have to make that decision, it gives you a lot more confidence going out into the streets," cadet Matt Lemmon said.
Bryan said the life-size simulator came with the building that the academy is leasing in the Wetmore Business Park.
Now in its 45th year, the academy was previously located on the top floor of AACOG headquarters on Tesoro Drive.
Bryan said that thanks to a generous donation to AACOG by the owner of the existing private training facility, "we took over the lease and we have over four times the space."