Newport News Implements Police Simulator for De-Escalation and Judgment Training
Immersive technology meant to supplement officers' exposure to different scenarios
In a move to modernize law enforcement training, the City of Newport News has implemented a new high-tech simulation system from VirTra, Inc. under a Subscription Training & Equipment Partnership (STEP) agreement. The program equips the Newport News Police Department (NNPD) with immersive training tools designed to enhance officers’ judgment, improve de-escalation tactics, and prepare them for high-stakes, real-world encounters.
The agreement—obtained through a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request—details a subscription-based plan with a first-year cost of $68,257.87, including one-time setup and shipping fees. Afterward, the City will pay an annual recurring fee of $59,487.87 for up to three years.
Central to the partnership is the VirTra Systems 300 LE-1 simulator, a 300-degree environment with five interconnected screens that immerse officers in interactive training scenarios. The simulator includes multi-directional audio, a law enforcement video library, and proprietary recoil kits that replicate real firearm responses. Officers will also train using VirTra’s patented Threat-Fire® return-fire device, which delivers safe, adjustable electrical feedback to simulate hostile encounters.
Training under the STEP program includes the VirTra-Virtual Interactive Coursework Training Academy (V-VICTA)—a certified, science-based curriculum. Lessons cover vital areas such as:
De-escalation techniques
Judgmental use of force
Responding to mental illness and PTSD
Active shooter and domestic violence scenarios
Low-light and high-risk vehicle stop simulations
The goal is not only to improve officer safety and community trust but also to instill critical decision-making skills through a “teach, train, test, and sustain” methodology.
“The immersive realism of VirTra’s simulators allows officers to experience the pressure of life-and-death situations in a safe environment,” the company said in its training materials. “They can learn from mistakes without real-world consequences, improving performance on the streets.”
The simulator also offers cost-effective alternatives to traditional training. According to VirTra, a simulated bullet costs fractions of a penny compared to 30 to 50 cents per live round, allowing for more frequent and diverse training sessions without a large ammunition budget.
As part of the STEP agreement, VirTra will handle installation, maintenance, and upgrades, ensuring the NNPD always has access to the latest training content and technology. Annual technician visits are included, as well as remote assistance, replacement parts, and software updates—eliminating the typical downtime and maintenance burden of in-house training systems.
The subscription-based approach also avoids capital outlays, allowing the City to invest in officer preparedness without the upfront costs of purchasing complex equipment.
“VirTra’s STEP program is designed to let departments focus on training—not outdated technology,” the company stated. “It’s about giving officers the tools and skills to de-escalate, survive, and serve with professionalism.”
The City’s investment reflects a growing national emphasis on law enforcement reform, accountability, and proactive training. By equipping officers with immersive, scenario-based education, Newport News officials hope to reduce the likelihood of force-related incidents and build greater confidence between the police department and the community it serves.
A Newport News Daily contributor produced this post using AI tools and these primary sources:
Subscription Training & Equipment Partnership (STEP) AGREEMENT
VirTra | STEP Program | Subscription Training Equipment Partnership
VirTra - "Training Points"
ViTra - Law Enforcement Simulators Overview
VirTra - Simulation training