VR Headsets and Scenarios - How the Police in Hesse Trains for Deployments - Hesse Police Grapple With Rising Mental Health Crisis Violence and Deadly Force
Police in Hesse are facing growing challenges when dealing with individuals in mental health crises. Recent incidents have included violent confrontations, with officers forced to use firearms in two cases—one of which ended fatally. These events highlight the pressures on law enforcement as they balance public safety with the emotional toll of such encounters.
On December 26, 2025, a 33-year-old patient was shot dead by police at the psychiatric ward of the University Hospital Gießen. The incident occurred in the afternoon when the man threatened hospital staff with scissors and later attacked officers with a knife made from a credit card. This was one of several cases where Hesse police had to respond to violent behaviour linked to mental illness.
To prepare for such high-risk situations, officers undergo rigorous training. Scenario-based exercises simulate encounters with mentally ill individuals who may become aggressive. Trainees learn de-escalation techniques, threat recognition, and how to adapt their responses under stress. The programme also includes effective communication strategies for unpredictable individuals. Hesse’s police force uses advanced tools like the Virtual Reality Training Center to rehearse complex operations. Integrated deployment training adds real-world stressors, testing teamwork and decision-making in chaotic environments. Despite this preparation, officers often struggle emotionally after firing their weapons, as such moments represent the worst-case scenarios in their careers. The Police Union (GdP) has raised concerns about increasing societal violence and attacks on emergency responders. They also point to the growing psychosocial demands on officers, who must manage both public safety and their own mental well-being.
The fatal shooting in Gießen underscores the difficult choices police face when dealing with mentally unstable individuals. Training programmes continue to evolve, focusing on de-escalation and responsible use of force. Yet, the emotional and professional challenges for officers remain significant as incidents of violence rise.
