2025 News 2025: Police Department awarded $105,000 grant to enhance crisis response training

Grant will fund virtual reality simulation training opportunities

The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth Police Department has been awarded $105,000 in funding through the Byrne State Crisis Intervention Program (CIP) grant initiative. This funding, administered by the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security's Office of Grants and Research (OGR), will be utilized to advance officer training in crisis response and de-escalation through the implementation of the cutting-edge Street Smarts Virtual Reality (VR) system.

The UMass Dartmouth Police Department is committed to equipping our officers with the skills necessary to effectively manage situations involving individuals experiencing mental health or addiction crises," said Chief of Police John Souza. "We also want to share these important training experiences with our community by engaging with our students, faculty, and staff."

The Street Smarts VR system provides realistic simulations of crisis situations, allowing officers to refine their responses in a controlled environment. This innovative training method will enhance officers' ability to prioritize safety, minimize the need for force, and strengthen relationships with the community. With the implementation of the VR training program, officers will gain immersive, scenario-based experience in handling high-stress encounters with professionalism, empathy, and de-escalation techniques.