The officers of the Bar Harbor Police Department recently completed their annual MARC (Mechanics of Arrest, Restraint and Control) training refresher, reinforcing essential skills that help keep both officers and the community safe.
On a brisk spring morning, officers gathered at the department's training facility where certified MARC instructors led them through a comprehensive review of proper restraint techniques, control methods, and situational use of force options. The training emphasized the department's commitment to using appropriate force only when necessary while prioritizing de-escalation whenever possible.
"MARC training is fundamental to our department's approach to law enforcement," said Officer Cake, who participated in the training. "It gives us the tools to respond effectively in challenging situations while minimizing the risk of injury to everyone involved."
The refresher covered everything from proper handcuffing procedures to defensive tactics and control techniques. Officers practiced scenarios that mirrored real-world situations they might encounter while patrolling Bar Harbor's streets, especially as the town prepares for the upcoming tourist season.
Chief Kerns observed the training and noted its importance to the department's operations. "Our officers serve a diverse community that grows significantly during the summer months. This training helps ensure they can handle any situation professionally and safely."
The MARC curriculum, developed by the Maine Criminal Justice Academy, has been a cornerstone of law enforcement training in Maine for decades, providing officers with standardized techniques that align with state laws and court decisions regarding appropriate use of force.
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