Officers with the Oelwein Police Department, Iowa City Police Department and the University of Iowa Department of Public Safety recently underwent expert defensive tactics training with help from former and current star University of Iowa wrestlers. The training took place at the University of Iowa Wrestling Facility.

The police agencies partnered with the UI Wrestling Program to enhance officer skills when it comes to physically managing a person during an incident or arrest, while also reducing the chance of injury to the officer and suspect.

Iowa All-American Wrestlers Matt McDonough, Mike Evans and Thomas Gilman helped instruct officers, in addition to defensive tactics instructors Ian Alke and Niles Mercer. Iowa City Police Training Coordinator Sgt. Doug Hart worked with Iowa Wresting Coach Tom Brands to arrange the training.

“This unique opportunity, gave our officers additional insight on how to defend others and themselves in ways that could hopefully reduce injuries to all parties,” stated Chief Jeremy Logan. “Officer’s strive to de-escalate situations without utilizing hands-on methods but unfortunately there are times when those efforts quickly fail and they are forced to go hands-on to resolve the situation and take the subject into custody.”

The Oelwein Police Department is greatly appreciative that the Iowa Wrestling Coaches and Team took time out of their schedules to enhance our efforts to provide a safe community.