Use of Force - The Real Judicial Rules for 21st Century Law Enforcement, Johnson County Sheriff's Office UOF2023-06

About this course

“True freedom requires the rule of law and justice,
and a judicial system in which the rights of some are
not secured by the denial of rights to others.”
- Jonathan Sacks

Course Overview

Understanding Use of Force examines the major legal concepts supporting use of force by LEOs; it also examines and analyzes current ‘hot button topics in the use of force area.

The very essence of a law enforcement officer is the ability to use force to gain compliance with laws and orders.  Pro-Train, Inc., an acknowledged leader in post-academy law enforcement training, offers this seminar to advance the road officer’s professional training to ‘state-of-the-art’ levels.  A brief historical foundation of use of force is followed by a critical examination of the ‘force continuum.’ Seminal U.S. Supreme Court cases are examined, as well as current case law from the U.S. Supreme Court, the 7th Circuit, and Indiana.  ‘Hot button’ use of force topics, including ‘choke holds’ and proportionality, are scrutinized with tips and suggestions for avoiding civil and criminal liability.  (Please note that, due to the ever-changing nature of this subject, the ‘hot button’ topics will vary from time to time.) Finally, the matter of qualified immunity for police officers is reviewed.  This may be the most crucial classroom training that a LEO could attend.

What will the student learn?

• The history and dangers associated with the force continuum;
• The U.S. Supreme Court established the legal standard for LEOs’ use of force;
• How the concept of proportionality affects a LEO’s delivery of force;
• How to recognize a person in crisis and when to employ de-escalation techniques;
• What is meant by qualified immunity, and how it protects LEOs;
• Legal analyses and tips on hot and potentially hazardous topics in use of force.

What will the student be required to do?

• The student will be challenged to set aside preconceived notions and ideas about police use of force.
• Think outside the media-driven pressure and ignore the current social pressures to ‘soften’ on criminals.
• This course is moderately paced and requires the student to focus attention and think logically.

Course Breakdown

Train Hard * Train to Win

Course Intensity
The content and pace of this course will be challenging for most students.  Some videos in this course may shock those with a more sensitive understanding of the constitution.

Physically Demanding
The style of this course is classroom lectures; there are no physical challenges for the student.

Mentally Challenging
An in-depth examination of U.S. Supreme Court, 7th Circuit, and Indiana cases form the foundation of this course.  Using concepts provided by the judicial system, students will be expected to analyze situations represented in videos and reach conclusions about the use of force by LEOs.

Core Building
LEOs engage in the delivery of force every time the law is enforced.  A thorough understanding of the use of force concepts is fundamental to professionalism and effective delivery of police services.  Successful completion will result in a confident and more mentally resilient officer when confronted with the use of force challenges.

“WE STAND TOGETHER; UNITED BY BADGE AND BY LIBERTY”

Student Take Away

• A greater understanding of how the Federal and State case laws regarding police use of force support officers’ ability to protect themself and others.
• Ability to identify use of force principles that prepare students psychologically for victory.
• A proven vehicle for imparting understanding and confidence during police use of force incidents.

Course Accreditation/Certification/Completion

• Certificate of course completion available for a fee of $3
• A certificate request must be generated through the online certificate request link @ www.PROTRAININC.com

Course Hours

• (1 day) 7-hour course.
• No Re-certification is required.

Required Course Equipment

Attending students will need to be enrolled individually and online.  The student must provide proof of employment by credentials, work-verified email, or authorization from their agency’s training coordinator.  All students must be on duty and not forced to attend the training course.

Students are required to bring the following equipment with them to class.

• There are no required items to bring to this course.

**No live weapons, chemical agents, or intermediate weapons are allowed in the training area**