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Pocono News Section
Trooper's Death a Hard Lesson for Young Cops
Trooper's Death a Hard Lesson for Young Cops - Tuesday, June 9, 2009 at 6:25PM EST
SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA COUNTY- The tragic death of Trooper Josh Miller, shows how dangerous police work can be. So how are future officers being prepared for life and death decisions?
Police academy instructors say there are no guarantees of safety for police officers. All they can do is train hard and be aware of what can happen.
These are images people around here won't soon forget. The tragic end of a police chase that ends in gunfire and the death of a young state trooper, Joshua Miller. And they are images that serve as a lesson for future police officers.
Eugeen Baidas is Director of the Police Academy at Lackawanna College in Scranton. The 30 year state police veteran says tragedies like the one in the Poconos serve as a reality check for anyone who serves and protects. Baidas described his feelings when he heard about what happened. "Shock, heart sick. A young trooper like that? Disbelief. It’s just amazing how things happen so quick," he said.
Baidas tells all his would-be officers over and over again, it’s all about getting home to your family. "I’m reminding them about safety. Always be aware, you know? It's that unknown factor when you stop a motorist, even for a misdemeanor or a felony stop. That was a pursuit. Expect to be ready. It’s hard to believe," he said.
And Daidas says domestic situations are among the most dangerous calls to answer. “The way people show their anger you don't know. It's hard in this environment with all the unknown things. You try and prepare them as best you can," he said.
Baidas adds there is no handbook for every situation. | |
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