How has use of force training changed over the past decade?
Advances in technology and improvements in device design have greatly improved officers’ ability to control individuals using less lethal force options. Comparing the TASER from when I was active (2011) to today, it has greater range, accuracy, and the ability to control multiple individuals by one officer.
How has the use of non-lethal tools and devices changed?
Due to changes and advancements in tools and equipment, officers are more likely to resort to less-lethal force during confrontations. Impact weapons are more compact, lighter, and easier to deploy and repackage than they were 10 years ago. These new designs significantly increase the likelihood that officers will carry impact weapons.
In your experience, what were the biggest difficulties police officers had during training?
Complex movements or techniques that require precision or multiple steps usually fail under stress. When these techniques are introduced in slow, controlled drills, officers can execute them. However, when the speed and stress of a realistic scenario are added, you will find that those same officers cannot execute the techniques successfully. One of the principles we use in our training is “forgiving techniques.” Forgiving techniques are procedures and principles that remain effective even when they are not executed exactly right.
What should law enforcement focus more on in non-lethal weapons training?
More time should be spent training less lethal methods and use of force. I know this isn’t always feasible due to staff shortages and hiring freezes, but just once or twice a year is nowhere near enough time for officers to maintain a level of proficiency in their defensive tactics. Keep training simple, complex movements and techniques are not retained by the average officer. Encourage officers to train on their own outside of work. Police officers are professionals who rely on their training and proficiency with the equipment they wear to keep the public and their own safe. Professional athletes train year-round to perfect their skills. We must do the same. The difference is our lives may depend on it.
