CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WCHS) — Cadets at the West Virginia State Police Academy in Charleston received a visit from U.S. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., on Saturday.
Capito spoke with the class about the importance of the training they receive in deescalating situations involving those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, according to a news release from the senator’s office.
“Police officers are often the ones who must step into difficult situations and resolve disputes while trying to maintain order and keep everyone safe,” Capito said in the news release. “Fortunately, the West Virginia State Police has taken a proactive stance when it comes to removing stereotypes and myths about people with disabilities, which promotes public safety and actually helps law enforcement do their jobs. I will always stand firmly with the men and women in uniform and enjoyed speaking with the cadets today who will help keep our communities safe for years to come.”
The visit highlighted training cadets receive from Steve Slack, an ambassador with the National Down Syndrome Society who volunteers his time training police departments on best practices in situations involving those with disabilities.
People with disabilities are 43% more likely to be arrested by the age of 28 and one-third of all civilians killed during encounters with police have a disability, according to the news release.