West Virginia Law Enforcement First to Receive Dynamic Entry Course Conducted by Homeland Security Expert

​Approximately 40 SWAT officers from the West Virginia State Police, Charleston Police Department, West Virginia Division of Corrections and the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department are participating in a 5-day dynamic entry course offered by one of Homeland Security’s most esteemed professionals.

Frank Skinner, a retired U.S. Marine Corps Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Officer with an extensive background in the counter terror arena, will be conducting the course, which will eventually be standardized for delivery in every state in the country. Skinner helped develop and track explosive entry in the early 1970’s and provides subject material expertise in counter terrorism, explosive threats and countermeasures to federal, state and local governments. Most of the breaching charges in use today are the product of Skinner’s theories and early concepts. West Virginia had to contend with seven other states when lobbying for the recruitment of Skinner’s course.

The course is designed to provide officers with the tools and techniques utilized for mechanical or shotgun breaching and best practice employment techniques during a dynamic assault. It is being held at Washington Manor, free of charge, as the building is set for demolition on Monday.

NOTES FOR MEDIA:

• Event is open to media ONLY during the time designated below.
• Frank Skinner and representatives of some participating agencies will be available for comment at that time.
• Cameras CANNOT capture students’ faces (only back sides).
• Filming of explosives and training materials will not be permitted; however, cameras can set up around the corner to capture SOUND ONLY.

Date: Thursday, April 14, 2011

Time: Open to media at 9:45 a.m.

Location: Washington Manor 
                (Behind the Charleston Marriott) 
                600 Clendenin Street 
                Charleston, WV 25301

Contact: Heather Miles, 304-558-2930