MSO IN TRAINING...

The 34th Basic Training Academy

Week 14:

The recruits went to on the job training for Memorial Day Holiday.  They got even more practice and were more prepared.

“I used to be a temp, and now after being in the academy and further learning the policies and procedures, you have a different outlook on the job.  You conduct yourself in a different manor and also verbalize differently,” said Recruit Richard Dahlke.  

The recruits had classes on gangs taught by Captain Richard Vivier and Officer Eric Costello.  In this course, the recruits learn the history of gangs in the United States, who join gangs, why youth join gangs, gang initiation practices, and background on well-known street and prison gangs.  Also, they focus on how to identify signs, symbols, literature, graffiti and tattoos associated with gang activity.

In criminal law, the recruits started reviewing for their test next week.  Brian Greeley taught another class on communication skills.

Defensive tactics were taught by Sergeant Brian Crane, Captain Jean Martin and Officer George Balian.  They learned the proper techniques with baton.  It was the first time they were instructed on how to use Oleoresin Capsicum Spray.  Recruit Christopher Coughlin mentioned how important it is to keep moving and redirect the spray in certain weather conditions or when it is windy.

Empathy training took place on Wednesday at the Billerica House of Correction.  Little did they know, the recruits would spend a couple of hours locked in actual inmate cells. They experienced the full effect of what it is like for an inmate to be incarcerated.  Recruit William Heron got the opportunity to be restrained by the move team and taken out on a restraint chair.

“The experience was such an eye-opener.  I realized I could never do that every day like inmates do,” said Recruit Cesarino Borelli.

“I felt very claustrophobic,” commented Recruit Jonathan Berkeley. 

“It puts you on the other side of the spectrum.  It’s totally different when you’re used to seeing it from the outside looking in.  There was no privacy and everything was very restricted,” said Recruit Edward Dillon.

Spanish lessons finished up this week with Ms. Karen Murphy.  On Tuesday they covered Spanish lingo used within the following areas: cell searches, hallways, visiting areas, jail desk and reception.  Other topics focused using alert words, danger words and commonly used dirty language.  Ms. Murphy discussed the Hispanic culture with its points of origin, communication style, religion, education levels, machismo and the Spanish naming system.  On Friday, the recruits finished up the week by presenting everything they have learned in their Spanish classes. Adios!