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Newport News Police Department
OPERATIONAL MANUAL
OPS - 250 – FIELD TRAINING PROGRAMS
Amends/Supersedes: OPS-250 (08/21/2023) Date of Issue: 06/29/2026
I. GENERAL
A. Field Training programs are an integral part of the transition from a new trainee into the full-time duties
of the employee's assigned position:
1. Field Training Officer Program: A program devised for a new officer, either recently hired with a
certification or a recent academy graduate, to orient them with the practical application of law
enforcement at the Newport News Police Department. Certified field training officers (FTOs) and the
involvement of precinct leadership are crucial to the successful implementation of the program.
2. Field Training and Leadership Program: A program that provides an officer promoted to the
supervisory position of sergeant with instruction about essential first-line supervisory tasks and
leadership capacity. The supervisor's lieutenant, or another supervisor designated by the
precinct/division commander, is responsible for instructing newly promoted sergeants. [33.8.2]
3. Non-Sworn Field Training Programs: Program that provides non-sworn personnel, such as police
aides and forensic technicians, with hands-on instruction and experience in the duties and
responsibilities of the position. Instruction is provided by a current employee designated by the
precinct/division commander or designee.
4. Communications New Hire Training Program: A program that provides comprehensive on-the-job
training for newly hired public safety specialists. See COM-510 New Hire Training Program for
program specifics.
B. All time frames referred to in this policy are intended as guidelines only. It is understood that all
employees faced with a new position progress at different levels. This, as well as staffing requirements,
may require a trainer to use discretion on transfers and other time requirements.
II. PROCEDURE – FIELD TRAINING OFFICER PROGRAM
A. Officer Eligibility [33.4.3(b)]
1. Officers may apply to become FTOs when notified that openings are available in their assigned
precinct.
2. To apply, an officer will submit a letter of request through their chain of command to the Patrol
Operations Assistant Chef.
3. Qualifications:
a. Minimum of two years of service with the Newport News Police Department.
b. Not more than one Group 1 misconduct violation in the twelve months before submitting the
application letter.
c. Must not have a current performance improvement plan on file.
d. Must not have any open administrative investigations at the time of application.
B. Selection Process [33.4.3(b)]
1. Each supervisor in the officer’s chain of command reviews the letter and submits their
recommendation. This letter must include the officer’s qualifications and verify their eligibility.
2. The Assistant Chief of Patrol Operations selects FTOs after reviewing the recommendations.
3. Once selected, the approved application is forwarded to the Training Section.
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