ODESSA, Texas — Traffic stops may seem pretty common for police, but many times they can be dangerous.
On Monday at the OPD Shooting Range, the Odessa Police Academy class practiced traffic stops, identified dangers they could face and practiced communicating with the general public.
"In this situation, they are practicing traffic stops for traffic violations, whether it's registered or unregistered registration, no insurance, speeding—some things like that," said Seargeant James Chadwick. "Running a stop sign, running a red light. They are practicing their contacts with the drivers. In this case, why they are wearing the masks and the helmets, it's to simulate possibly being struck or being hit by a weapon. It's to teach the no-lose concept and do not quit."
Every academy goes through this, but police say even seasoned officers brush up to hone their skills.