Use of Force (Essentials, Leadership & Meaningful Review Training)

The Use of Force Trilogy: Building Competence, Confidence & Credibility

This comprehensive three-level training series addresses one of law enforcement's most critical and heavily scrutinized responsibilities. The program is designed to strengthen every level of your organization—from frontline officers to executive leadership—by providing modern, evidence-based instruction that emphasizes both competence and accountability.

Course Structure:

Each level operates as a complete, independent training experience, allowing officers to attend individually based on their role and experience level, or combine multiple levels for a comprehensive understanding of force management and leadership. No prerequisites are required for flexible enrollment.

Level I: Law Enforcement Essentials

This foundational one-day program explores why force is applied, when it is legally justified, and how split-second decisions impact officers, their agencies, and communities. Officers gain practical clarity on the legal and tactical principles that guide sound decision-making under stress. Topics covered include core case law and legal standards, threat recognition and tactical judgment, identifying escalation and de-escalation opportunities, duty to intervene strategies, after-incident medical response, and advanced documentation and report writing techniques.

Level II: Leadership, Oversight & Training

This course targets supervisors, trainers, and command personnel, focusing on leadership responsibilities before, during, and after use-of-force incidents. Attendees develop competency in managing real-world critical incidents, delivering effective training and oversight, and preserving public trust through transparency and consistent practices. The curriculum includes supervisory and training case law, policy-based personnel preparation, national case reviews, scenario-based leadership exercises, field supervision and scene management, and strategies for maintaining community confidence.

Level III: Meaningful Reviews & Organizational Best Practices

This strategic-level course equips leaders with systematic tools for conducting post-incident reviews that become opportunities for organizational growth and risk reduction. Instruction covers conducting thorough post-incident reviews, officer debriefing and developmental feedback, translating lessons learned into actionable training improvements, policy updates and retraining initiatives, litigation and liability management, and cultivating a forward-thinking, learning-centered organizational culture.

Target Audience:

• All law enforcement officers of all ranks (police, sheriff, corrections, and related agencies)
• Union leadership and representatives
• Firearms and defensive tactics instructors
• First-line supervisors and mid-level leaders
• Internal affairs and professional standards personnel
• Command staff and executive officers
• Policy developers and accreditation managers
• Legal advisors
• Community review boards and oversight members

Course Details:

All levels run from 0830 to 1630 hours. The program employs a systems approach to use of force, examining how case law has shaped modern law enforcement practices. Instruction addresses controversial and contemporary topics including chokeholds, duty to intervene, and de-escalation techniques.

Upcoming Dates and Locations:

• September 28–30, 2026 – Idaho (Level I, II, III)
• September 13–15, 2027 – Passaic County, New Jersey (Level I, II, III)

Participants may register for individual levels or purchase the complete trilogy at a discounted rate through the Level I registration option. Flexible scheduling allows officers to select sessions that align with their roles and organizational needs.