The new law-enforcement training center near Fairchild Air Force Base will boost public safety in Spokane County, says a key legislator on crime issues.
State Sen. Mike Padden, the Republican leader on the Senate Law and Justice Committee, will attend and speak at today’s grand-opening ceremony for the new training center.
“This new training center is a state-of-the-art facility,” said Padden, R-Spokane Valley. “It will enhance public safety for everyone in Spokane County – officers and citizens alike.”
Padden, who serves the 4th Legislative District, said the new training center is the result of a joint effort between the U.S. Air Force and Spokane County.
“I commend the Air Force and Spokane County for their wonderful job of planning, funding and constructing this outstanding facility,” said Padden.
Padden mentioned it will be used by several law-enforcement agencies in the area, including officers with the Spokane Valley Police Department and the county sheriff’s staff who serve in unincorporated areas.
“This new facility will allow us to train more law-enforcement personnel in our region,” said Padden, who noted Washington ranks last among all states for the number of law-enforcement officers per capita. “It will greatly reduce the backlog for training officers across the state.
“It’s encouraging to know that the vast majority of law-enforcement officers in the 4th Legislative District will train at this new center,” added Padden.