TPD cadets undergo firearms training

TOLEDO, Ohio (WTVG) – New recruits to the Toledo Police Department undergo hours of extensive firearms training.

Cadet Alex Reil and his classmates spent hours at the shooting range learning their gun and the department’s use of force policy.

“You have the power to take someone’s life and taking someone’s life is something you really have to live with for the rest of your life,” said Cadet Alex Reil.

Reil served four years in the Marine Corps infantry and served two stints overseas.

His reason for becoming a police officer is personal.

“Last year I lost my sister due to domestic violence. So I really wanted to become a police officer just to really help people,” Reil said.

His sister was only 24 years old and a single mother.

Reil and other cadets competed today for the title of top scorer. The cadets were shooting bowling pins and a balloon.

Sergeant Corey Russell said it is a timed exercise, so there is some built-in pressure.

“They’re here engaging multiple targets, shooting, doing a lot of rounds with magazine changes, all the while the time frame in which they have to do that is getting shorter and shorter,” said TPD Sgt. Corey Russell.

They also practiced taking cover behind a barricade sign.

“The barricade sign gives them a chance to kind of see what it would be like if you approach a house and it’s on fire, and all there is is a curb or a fire hydrant.” There’s a lot of you visible, so how do I make sure I make myself as small as possible, use this cover to the best of my ability and still get accurate rounds on my threat,” said Sgt. Russel.

It won’t be long before these men and women take to the streets.

Reil said he looks forward to giving back and serving the Toledo community

“I just want them to understand that I can be there for them and try to help as best I can to be a role model, whoever I can be,” Reil said.

The cadets will graduate from the police academy in January.

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