This is an independent study, self-paced course.
Supervisors who review or investigate Use of Force incidents must be able to understand and successfully 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 policy.
We will examine the different perspectives and perceptions of the officer, agency, media, and public. We will review the need to involve the community and media when possible, and to explain the science behind Use of Force incidents. Use of Force issues that impact the department, internal affairs, training unit, supervisors, and officers will also be discussed.
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
- Taking emotion out of the equation
- Officer response times
- Duty to intervene
- Department culture
Audience
Law enforcement and military supervisors
This course is restricted to active law enforcement.
Course Length
8 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. Instructors are available to answer your questions during each module via the help forum.
You should plan to dedicate approximately 8 hours to the course activities. You must be committed to the course and invest the time necessary for successful completion. The course must be completed within 30 days upon registration. Once the 30-day period has ended, you will no longer have access.
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 video review that was directly related to the topic and the discussion that occurred prior to the videos." – Sup. N.P.
- "I liked the ease of navigation and use with the distance learning software." – Mgr. S.W.
- "The course had thought provoking video selections." – Ofc. J.H.
This course is not eligible for certificate discounts.