507-8 field training officer program and unit training member

Field Training Officer Program and Unit Training Member

• The Field Training Officer Program provides training and evaluation of probationary police officers after graduation from the Regional Training Academy.
• A Unit Training Member (UTM) provides training to newly assigned members in specialized units.

Field Training Officer (FTO) Criteria

• Must have three years of field experience as a police officer.
• Must be able to effectively communicate instructions both orally and in writing.
• Must present a professional appearance, as outlined in the Uniform and Personal Appearance Regulations.
• Must be willing to work flexible hours and overtime.
• Must accept a two-year commitment upon activation as a FTO, while assigned to Patrol Bureau.
• Any sustained complaints from the Office of Community Complaints, within the previous two years, will be considered.
• Must have no more than one preventable vehicular within the previous 12 months.
• Must have obtained a satisfactory evaluation for the previous two years.
• Must successfully complete the FTO selection process.

FTO Benefits and Incentives

• Receive a skill incentive allowance of $100 per month.
• Receive a Trainer's Ribbon denoting FTO status to be worn while in the program and permanently after one year in the program.
• A star will be awarded for every five primary recruits trained.
• Receive Extra (E) days as follows:
  • One "E" day for each primary recruit trained.
  • Two "E" days upon completion of every twelve months in the program.
• Receive priority consideration for pre-approved leave time.
• Receive a minimum of one hour overtime for each shift spent training a recruit.
• Receive priority consideration for Continuing Education Training.
• Participate as an actor in a minimum of two Practical Integrated Exercises (PIE's) or Situational Training Sessions put on annually by the Regional Police Academy.

Unit Training Member (UTM) Benefits

• A UTM will be appointed by the commander/supervisor and will receive one "E" day for each member trained.

Procedure for FTO and UTM

• Members must submit an Interdepartment Communication, Form 191 P.D., accompanied by a resume, through the chain of command to the Patrol Bureau Office.
• The member's commander/supervisor will attach the member's last two Performance Evaluations and an updated Demeanor Record to the request.
• Commanders/supervisors will review requests and make recommendations regarding the member's qualifications with consideration given to the listed criteria.
• The Patrol Bureau Commander or designee will review the requests and approve those qualified to attend the FTO training course.
• The Patrol Bureau Commander or designee will activate FTOs from the eligibility pool and de-activate FTOs based on the needs of the Field Training and Evaluation Program.