A Spokane lab and Washington State University researchers are testing the performance of police officers when they are tired and sleep-deprived.

KREM reports ( http://bit.ly/tVSBIj) the work of Dr. Bryan Vila could influence how police departments schedule officers. The research is partially funded by the Defense Department because it's also relevant to soldiers.

The researchers are putting 80 officers from around the Inland Northwest through driving simulations and deadly force scenarios. They'll be tested at the end of a work week and again when they are rested after three days off.

Vila's previous research indicates fatigue can impair officers as much as a blood alcohol level above the legal limit for drivers.

---

Information from: KREM-TV, http://www.krem.com/