A CPD Sergeant said officers have to go through extensive training on how to use force and when it's appropriate. COLUMBIA - The Columbia Police Department assured they have had extensive training amid national news of an officer in Minnesota allegedly shooting a 20-year-old man with a gun, when intending to fire a taser. CPD could not comment on the situation in Minnesota, but they told KOMU 8 what they do to prevent similar things from happening in Columbia. Officers have to go through extensive training at the academy on how to use guns and other weapons. Internal Affairs Supervisor Sergeant Scott Alpers said all officers in Columbia go through extensive training at the academy.