This is an independent study, self-paced course.
This course is designed to give you the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully understand and convey why force was necessary and how it is permitted under specific circumstances. These circumstances transpire during a rapidly evolving and dynamic incident that usually gives a law enforcement officer little time to act or react.
The law does not allow officers to use discrimination, violation of departmental policies, or unconstitutional actions in their duties, however, it is pivotal that officers and departments understand Use of Force principles while reviewing and evaluating their current policies. This course will examine the different perspectives and perceptions of the officer, their agency, the media, and the public. It will also cover the need to involve the community and media, when possible, to explain the science behind Use of Force incidents.
Topics Include
- Defining Use of Force
- Graham v. Conner
- Reasonableness
- Questionable Use of Force
- Hesitation among officers in Use of Force incidents
- Agency policy
- Improper training (training scars)
- Human performance factors (myths vs. facts)
- Emotional intensity
- Perception vs. reality
- De-escalation strategies
- Reporting Use of Force incidents
Audience
Detectives, Patrol Officers
This course is restricted to active law enforcement.
Course Length
4 hours
Note(s)
This course is not intended to teach an individual how to use force correctly based on departmental policy or current state law.
Related Courses
Online Details
Online environment: This is an independent study, self-paced course. Although there are no specific times that you must be online, you will be required to complete assignments by the deadlines posted within the course. You should plan to dedicate approximately four hours to the course activities. You must be committed to the course and invest the time necessary for successful completion.
Instructors are available to answer your questions during each module via the help forum. The course must be completed within 30 days upon registration. Once the 30-day period has ended, you may no longer have access and be required to re-enroll. Additional fees may apply.
Computer requirements: You will complete the course entirely online. A dependable broadband internet connection with a Windows or Mac computer and Adobe Acrobat Reader (free download) are required.
What Our Students Are Saying
- “I enjoyed the course assignments that required me to watch a use of force incident and apply what I knew and learned from the course.” – Ofc. C.B.
This course is not eligible for certificate discounts.