Broadmeadows
Probationary constables from the Victoria Police Academy were out in force at Broadmeadows shopping centre last Thursday afternoon completing a vital part of their training.
The 20 officers donned uniforms for the first time as part of Operation OPTIC (Operational Police Training in the Community), which involves recruits taking part in patrols and engaging with traders and the community for the first time as representatives of Victoria Police.
Acting Senior Sergeant Paul Scarlett, from the centre for applying police practice at the Victoria Police Academy, oversaw the four-and-a-half-hour operation that also included an additional 12 supporting officers.
He stressed the importance of the operation in giving the probationary constables the capacity to communicate effectively with the community.
“It’s their first time out in their police uniforms. It’s a very different process when you’re representing Victoria Police,” he said.
Acting Senior Sergeant Scarlett said the operation was considered a popular part of the trainees’ 33-week program.
LEXI COTTEE
