UMass Boston

The UMass Boston Police Department has been awarded a $55,000 grant through the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program, a partnership between the U.S. Department of Justice and the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS).

The funding will be used to purchase a state-of-the-art Virtual Reality (VR) training system that allows officers to experience realistic, scenario-based exercises designed to improve judgment, communication, and crisis response. 

The VR platform immerses officers in lifelike encounters - from traffic stops and mental health calls to domestic disputes and active threat situations. These simulations give officers the ability to practice responding safely and effectively in a controlled, repeatable environment. 

“This kind of technology takes our training to the next level,” said Chief Stacey Lloyd. “It gives our officers the chance to make critical decisions in real time and learn from those experiences before they happen in the field. That means better outcomes for both our officers and the residents of UMass Boston Police Department.” 

A Smarter, Safer Way to Train 

For proactive departments like UMass Boston Police Department, finding time and resources to conduct frequent in-person training can be challenging. The VR system helps bridge that gap by allowing officers to participate in short, intensive sessions that can be tailored to local priorities - such as de-escalation techniques, crisis intervention, and dealing with individuals experiencing a mental health crisis. 

The new system will also enable the department to collaborate with neighboring agencies, expanding access to innovative training tools across the region. 

“We’re always looking for ways to train smarter and make the most of every dollar,” Chief Lloyd added. “This grant helps us do that. It’s an investment not just in technology, but in the professionalism and preparedness of our officers.” 

Supporting the Community 

The Byrne JAG program is the leading federal source of criminal justice funding for local law enforcement. By using this grant to strengthen officer training, UMass Boston Police Department Police continue their commitment to proactive, community-centered policing and public safety innovation.