DOTHAN, Ala. (WTVY) – On National Autism Awareness Day, the Dothan Police Department gave a closer look at how it’s using virtual reality training to better serve the community—by helping officers step into the perspective of those they encounter in the field.
Inside the department’s training room, officers are doing more than reviewing procedures. They’re putting on virtual reality headsets and immersing themselves in real-life scenarios designed to mirror high-pressure situations, including interactions with individuals on the autism spectrum.
The goal is to prepare officers to respond with empathy, patience and understanding when every second counts.
“Well, the idea of virtual reality is that in an officer’s mind, there’s really no difference between virtual reality and reality,” said training officer Scott Owens.
Through the program, officers now have access to more than 30 different scenarios. These range from encounters with individuals who may be impaired or experiencing mental health crises, to situations involving autism and sensory overload. Owens says each scenario is designed to give officers more tools and strategies they can rely on in the field.
“They range from anything, from talking to somebody who’s impaired, intoxicated, schizophrenic or schizoaffective disorder. There are suicidal subjects in there…and all of that is to help us put more strategies in the toolbox,” Owens said.
The department first introduced the virtual reality program in 2021 with just 10 headsets. Since then, the program has expanded.
With a renewed contract through Axon, the department now has 20 headsets—allowing twice as many officers to train at the same time.
According to Owens, the biggest impact of the training isn’t always visible.
“I think the best part is you don’t see it. What you don’t see is escalations in use of force against people who are going through crisis…and that speaks to our de-escalation in those moments,” he said.
The training helps officers recognize how certain actions—like shining a bright light or asking too many questions—can increase stress for someone experiencing overstimulation. By understanding those triggers, officers can slow down their approach and communicate more effectively.
“We want to put the officer in the perspective of the person who’s having the crisis…it helps us slow down and be very deliberate with our communication,” Owens said.
Beyond virtual reality, the department is also working to strengthen its connection with the community. Officers are equipped with sensory kits and the department provides stickers and materials for families—helping alert officers when someone they encounter may be on the autism spectrum.
“Understanding…that’s really what today is about,” Owens said.
For officers, that preparation can turn tense moments into opportunities for connection and care.
“We want to provide empathy…and really just every day, 365 days a year…we stand with our autistic community, and we’re always here to help,” he said.
The department says this training takes place year-round, with officers completing up to 38 hours of training. As the program continues to grow, leaders say the focus remains the same—giving officers the tools they need to respond with patience, understanding, and compassion.
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