Ocala Police Department looking to purchase $89,000 training simulator for officers

The Ocala Police Department is hoping that city officials will approve a request for the purchase of a training simulator for officers.

The Apex Officer Training Simulator uses technology and training devices to provide realistic scenarios that require the officers to make decisions and respond appropriately.

Those scenarios allow the officers to train in proper de-escalation techniques and the transition to less lethal weapons when appropriate. After each hands-on exercise, the simulator provides a detailed debriefing and after-action review.

City staff is recommending approval, and council members will vote on whether or not to approve the purchase during the Ocala City Council regular meeting on Tuesday, February 1.

If the request is approved, the Ocala Police Department will use funds from its existing budget to purchase the training simulator for $89,296.

The Ocala City Council meets on the first and third Tuesday of every month at Ocala City Hall, which is located at 110 SE Watula Avenue.