At the Pekin Police Department, serving as a Range Officer is a respected secondary assignment that supports the department’s commitment to professional training, safety, and operational readiness.

Range Officers are specially trained to assist with department firearms qualifications, tactical skills development, and use-of-force training. Officers selected for this assignment complete formal instructor training through the Police Training Institute in Champaign, Illinois, ensuring instruction meets recognized professional standards.

In addition to teaching marksmanship fundamentals and advanced techniques, Range Officers are responsible for maintaining strict range safety and security protocols. They play a vital role in ensuring every officer is confident, competent, and prepared to deploy their firearm effectively and responsibly.

The department currently has nine certified Range Officers who support ongoing training initiatives. Beyond initial certification, officers may pursue advanced credentials, including the Master Firearms Instructor certification. At present, three Pekin officers hold this advanced designation, reflecting the department’s investment in high-level instructor development.