A panel of health and law enforcement experts is calling for urgent changes to police academy training policies to prevent exertion-related deaths among recruits.
“We cannot let these things slide,” said Traci Tauferner, an Athletic Trainer and member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police committee.
Tauferner emphasized the need for screening recruits for sickle cell trait, which is prevalent among Black Americans and heightens the risk of complications during extreme exertion.
“It’s a simple $75 test that has saved lives in the NCAA,” she said, noting it would inform—not disqualify—applicants.
Black recruits accounted for nearly 60% of recorded deaths, despite making up just 12% of police officers nationwide, according to federal data. Experts urged academies to train instructors in recognizing heat illness and sickle cell symptoms, enforce hydration and temperature protocols, and allow recruits to report issues without fear of retaliation.
Anna August, athletic trainer for Fairfax County Police in Virginia, noted the lack of national training standards.
“Instructors are often overtasked and not medically trained to identify exertional illnesses,” she said.
Brian Grisham, deputy director of the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training, said his group is developing new guidelines, including fitness benchmarks, medical personnel requirements, and instructor education.
“If we can save even a small percentage, we’re doing something worthwhile,” he said.
One key recommendation? More Athletic Trainers on site.
“They have the skills to prevent and respond to injuries,” Grisham said, “and that could make all the difference.”
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