ILEETA Journal: Conference Edition | 2023

The ILEETA Journal

Conference Edition | 2023

The Spring Edition of the ILEETA Journal (Volume 13, Edition 2) delivers a diverse and insightful collection of articles aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of law enforcement training. Readers can expect in-depth analyses on critical issues such as use of force, with Kevin R. Davis providing reflections on recent cases and emphasizing the importance of legal preparedness for officers. The edition highlights innovative training methodologies, including the incorporation of experiential learning and the “Four C’s” to improve officers’ responses during high-stress situations.

Medical training is brought to the forefront by Sgt. Gerald Schlosser, who stresses its vital role in officer safety. Instructor development is a key theme, featuring discussions on leveraging artificial intelligence, effective demonstration techniques, and the importance of instructors maintaining their own wellness to lead by example. Leadership and organizational culture are also examined, with articles addressing the impact of promotional practices on agency morale and the risks of lowering hiring standards.

Overall, this edition offers practical strategies, expert insights, and thought-provoking perspectives designed to advance law enforcement training and promote a culture of excellence and well-being within the profession.

In this Edition:

Maximizing Your ILEETA Conference | Harvey Hedden

Harvey Hedden provides practical advice on how to fully benefit from the ILEETA Conference. He discusses strategies for effective planning, including selecting sessions that meet your training needs and networking with fellow professionals. Hedden emphasizes active participation, time management, and post-conference follow-up to implement new ideas and enhance one’s role as a law enforcement trainer.

Meet Me in St. Louis! A Guide to the ILEETA Host City | Kim Schlau

Kim Schlau offers a comprehensive guide to exploring St. Louis during the ILEETA Conference. Highlighting attractions like the Gateway Arch, City Museum, and local dining spots, she helps visitors experience the city’s rich culture and history. Schlau’s insights enable attendees to make the most of their downtime by enjoying the best that St. Louis has to offer.

Come to the Emerson Hour | Joe Willis

Joe Willis invites conference participants to attend the Emerson Hour, a unique event at ILEETA where speakers share personal insights in brief, impactful presentations. He explains how this gathering fosters community, inspires innovation, and sparks meaningful conversations among law enforcement trainers. Willis emphasizes that the Emerson Hour is an opportunity to reflect, connect, and be motivated by peers.

To What Standard? | Kevin Davis

Kevin Davis examines the legal complexities surrounding use-of-force standards in law enforcement. He discusses discrepancies between state laws and established cases like Graham v. Connor, highlighting how conflicting standards can confuse officers and impact their decision-making. Davis stresses the need for clear, consistent training and policies to guide officers in high-stakes situations, ensuring lawful and ethical actions.

Just Be Better! | Todd Fletcher

Todd Fletcher challenges law enforcement firearms instructors to push beyond low expectations and mediocrity. He advocates for training that builds officers’ abilities to perform under real-world pressures, emphasizing speed, accuracy, and decision-making. Fletcher underscores the importance of a positive training culture that encourages growth and supports students in reaching higher performance levels.

Understanding and Training Female Shooters Instructor Development | Lou Ann Hamblin

Lou Ann Hamblin addresses the challenges in effectively training female shooters in law enforcement. She discusses physiological differences, ergonomic considerations, and communication styles that impact female officers’ performance. Hamblin offers strategies for instructors to better understand and support female shooters, emphasizing tailored training approaches to enhance skills and confidence.

Defensive Tactics Checklist: How to Measure DTAC Skills | Harinder Singh

Harinder Singh presents a comprehensive checklist for evaluating defensive tactics (DTAC) skills. He emphasizes the importance of honesty, humility, and measurable progress in training. Singh outlines key areas such as skill assessment, attribute development, tactical understanding, and strategic thinking. He provides guidance on continuous improvement to enhance officers’ confidence and effectiveness in real-world confrontations.

A Cohesive Active Shooter Coordinated Attack (ASCAR) Response Doctrine | Scott M. Hyderkhan

Scott M. Hyderkhan proposes a unified doctrine for responding to active shooter and coordinated attacks. He identifies four key areas: mission command, tactical operations, operational planning, and training management. Hyderkhan argues that integrating these areas creates a cohesive response strategy, enhancing readiness and effectiveness in handling complex incidents and improving mission success.

Power Strikes: The Hammer Fist | Chris Hertig

Chris Hertig explores the hammer fist as a powerful and practical striking technique in defensive tactics. He explains how to execute the hammer fist effectively, minimizing injury risk while delivering decisive blows. Hertig provides training tips and references to enhance the use of the hammer fist, advocating for its inclusion in law enforcement training to quickly neutralize aggressive subjects.

Rangemaster’s Rallying Point | Jason Wuestenberg

Jason Wuestenberg discusses the critical responsibilities of a rangemaster in managing a law enforcement firearms program. He covers best practices for administrative duties, training oversight, range safety, and instructor development. Wuestenberg emphasizes the importance of proper training and resources for rangemasters to ensure consistent, effective firearms instruction and maintain high standards within their agencies.

Remington 870 | Carlos Kerley Jr.

Carlos Kerley Jr. delves into the enduring role of the Remington 870 shotgun in law enforcement. He discusses its historical significance, operational use, and challenges such as maintenance and training gaps due to changes in manufacturing. Kerley highlights the importance of continued training, armorer knowledge, and familiarity with the 870 to ensure it remains a reliable tool for officers.

Simple Ways to Make Your Training More Effective | Kerry Avery, M.Ed.

Kerry Avery offers practical methods for instructors to enhance training effectiveness, even with limited resources. She suggests incorporating interactive exercises, engaging teaching methods, and minor tweaks to existing courses to improve memory recall and learner engagement. Avery emphasizes the application of adult learning principles to maximize the impact of training within time constraints.

Mix It Up! Using Interleaving in Training | Jason Der

Jason Der introduces interleaving as a training technique that involves mixing different but related topics or skills during instruction. He explains how this approach improves retention, problem-solving, and adaptability by challenging learners to distinguish between concepts. Der provides practical examples for implementing interleaving in law enforcement training, encouraging instructors to adopt this method for more effective learning outcomes.

Achieving Consistent Instruction with Multiple Instructors | Patrick Horine

Patrick Horine addresses the challenges of maintaining consistent training when multiple instructors are involved. He provides solutions for standardizing curriculum, aligning teaching methods, and ensuring that all instructors deliver content uniformly. Horine emphasizes the necessity of detailed lesson plans, practical exercise guides, and supervision to uphold training quality and consistency.

Stop Hurting My Brain! The Psychological Impacts of Scenario-Based Training | Andy Clark

Andy Clark examines the potential psychological effects of intense scenario-based training on officers. He discusses how high-stress simulations can induce real stress responses, which may affect learning and well-being. Clark offers strategies for designing training that balances realism with psychological safety, ensuring that officers benefit from scenarios without experiencing harmful levels of stress.

Data Visualization Techniques (For Regular People) | Jennifer C. Kelly

Jennifer C. Kelly introduces accessible data visualization methods suitable for law enforcement professionals. She highlights tools like Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint that can be used effectively to present data clearly. Kelly provides practical tips on selecting appropriate chart types, simplifying complex information, and enhancing presentations to support analysis and decision-making processes.

Death by PowerPoint Resuscitation Tactics | Scott Buhrmaster

Scott Buhrmaster critiques the common pitfalls of overusing PowerPoint in training presentations. He offers strategies to revitalize presentations by focusing on engaging storytelling, interactive elements, and visual aids that enhance rather than detract from the message. Buhrmaster emphasizes the importance of connecting with the audience to improve knowledge retention and make training more impactful.

Training with P-R-I-D-E | Mike Schlosser

Mike Schlosser presents a framework for law enforcement training based on the acronym P-R-I-D-E. He discusses principles such as Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Dedication, and Empathy. Schlosser explains how integrating these core values into training programs fosters ethical behavior, strong work ethic, and positive community relations, developing well-rounded officers committed to excellence.

The Proper Focus of Report Writing | Scott Reitz

Scott Reitz emphasizes the critical role of clear and accurate report writing in law enforcement. He offers guidance on structuring reports, focusing on essential details, and adhering to legal and procedural standards. Reitz highlights that well-written reports are vital for legal proceedings, accountability, and preserving the integrity of investigations, encouraging officers to prioritize this essential skill.

Police Policy Principles and Training | Rick Michelson

Rick Michelson explores the relationship between departmental policies and officer training. He highlights the importance of aligning training programs with policy principles to ensure that officers understand and can effectively implement guidelines in the field. Michelson discusses strategies for integrating policy education into training, enhancing compliance, decision-making, and overall organizational performance.

Professional Jealousy: Taming the Green Eyed Monster | Marcia Williams

Marcia Williams examines how professional jealousy can impact teamwork and morale within law enforcement agencies. She identifies signs of jealousy and its detrimental effects on individuals and teams. Williams offers strategies for leaders and officers to address and mitigate jealousy, promoting a culture of support, recognition, and collaboration to enhance workplace harmony and effectiveness.

Fraud Alert! How to Recognize and Overcome Imposter Syndrome | Brian Willis

Brian Willis addresses imposter syndrome among law enforcement professionals. He discusses how feelings of self-doubt can hinder performance and career progression. Willis provides strategies to overcome self-doubt, such as acknowledging achievements, seeking mentorship, and fostering a supportive environment, empowering officers to embrace their competencies confidently.

Developing and Maintaining Your CIT Program Practically | Amy Blanchard

Amy Blanchard offers practical guidance on establishing and sustaining a Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) program. She covers training requirements, interagency collaboration, and resource management to effectively support individuals experiencing mental health crises. Blanchard emphasizes the importance of adaptability and commitment to improving outcomes for both officers and community members.

The Shelf | Bruce Sokolove

Bruce Sokolove explores the concept of “The Shelf,” representing the accumulation of unused knowledge and skills over time. He encourages officers to continually apply and update their training to avoid becoming stagnant in their careers. Sokolove advocates for lifelong learning and staying engaged with new knowledge and skills to remain effective and fulfilled in law enforcement.

What Does Retirement Look Like For You? | Steve Ashley

Steve Ashley explores retirement planning tailored for law enforcement personnel. He discusses financial considerations, emotional readiness, and steps officers can take to prepare for a fulfilling life after their law enforcement career ends. Ashley emphasizes proactive planning, exploring new interests, and maintaining a sense of purpose to ensure a satisfying retirement experience.

Law Enforcement Tactical Medicine | Dr. Andrew Dennis

Dr. Andrew Dennis highlights the crucial role of tactical medicine in law enforcement operations. He discusses training officers in medical response, integrating medical protocols into tactical plans, and the benefits of having medically trained personnel on high-risk operations. Dennis emphasizes that tactical medicine enhances officer safety and improves outcomes during critical incidents.

Tactical Yoga, Squishes, Oil and More | Loren Christensen

Loren Christensen delves into unconventional methods for improving officer wellness and performance. He explores practices such as tactical yoga, massage techniques (“squishes”), and other holistic approaches. Christensen discusses how these methods can reduce stress, enhance flexibility, and promote mental resilience, encouraging their incorporation into training and self-care routines.

Media Relations and Marketing Your Law Enforcement Agency | Julie Parker

Julie Parker offers guidance on effectively managing media relations and promoting a positive image of a law enforcement agency. She covers strategies for proactive communication, transparency, and community engagement. Parker discusses crafting clear messages, leveraging social media, and handling public relations challenges, emphasizing the importance of building public trust and collaboration.

Resilience is an Officer Safety Skill | Dr. Nancy Bohl-Penrod

Dr. Nancy Bohl-Penrod discusses how mental and emotional resilience contributes to officer safety. She explains that resilience enables officers to cope with stress, recover from traumatic events, and maintain performance. Bohl-Penrod offers strategies for building resilience through training, support systems, and self-care practices, underscoring its vital role in overall safety and well-being.

Suicide Risk Management: Creating a Culture of Psychological Safety | Marie Ridgeway

Marie Ridgeway addresses the critical issue of suicide among law enforcement personnel. She emphasizes the need to create a supportive organizational culture that promotes psychological safety and open dialogue. Ridgeway discusses identifying risk factors, providing resources, and fostering an environment where seeking help is encouraged to enhance officer mental health and prevent tragedies.

Broader Context Investigations into Domestic Violence Crimes to Prevent Homicide | Mark Wynn

Mark Wynn advocates for comprehensive investigations in domestic violence cases to prevent escalation to homicide. He emphasizes understanding the broader context, patterns of abuse, and risk factors. Wynn provides investigative techniques and stresses interagency cooperation to enhance victim safety, hold offenders accountable, and ultimately save lives through proactive intervention.

Change Agent: The Trainer’s Leadership Challenge | Doug Wyllie

Doug Wyllie explores the role of trainers as catalysts for change within law enforcement agencies. He discusses leadership challenges trainers face in influencing officer behavior, culture, and organizational practices. Wyllie offers strategies for effective communication, mentorship, and overcoming resistance, highlighting the significant impact trainers have on shaping the future of policing.

What WE Want: A Study on Police Expectations, the Results | Richard Beary

Richard Beary presents findings from a study examining police officers’ expectations and needs within their organizations. He discusses factors such as job satisfaction, desired support from leadership, and priorities for professional development. Beary highlights how understanding these expectations can guide agencies in implementing policies that improve morale, performance, and officer retention.

A Vacuum of Leadership | Jon Becker

Jon Becker examines the consequences of inadequate leadership within law enforcement organizations. He discusses how a lack of strong leadership affects morale, decision-making, and the ability to achieve strategic goals. Becker suggests ways to address leadership gaps, emphasizing the development of competent leaders who can guide agencies through challenges effectively.

Planting the Seed for the Generation of Law Enforcement | Jonni Redick

Jonni Redick focuses on strategies to inspire and prepare the next generation of law enforcement officers. She discusses the importance of recruitment, mentorship, and education initiatives that reflect diversity and inclusion. Redick emphasizes cultivating positive relationships and providing guidance to encourage young people to pursue careers in policing, ensuring a strong future workforce.

Stop Hurting My Brain! A Panel Discussion of the Psychological Impacts of Scenario-Based Training | Alexandra Kitty Nelson

Alexandra Kitty Nelson examines the psychological effects of realistic scenario-based training on law enforcement officers. She highlights how repeated exposure to simulated traumatic incidents can induce stress responses similar to real-life situations, potentially leading to cognitive dysfunction and physical injury if not properly addressed. Nelson emphasizes the importance of incorporating mental health considerations into training plans and utilizing evidence-based decompression methods. She advocates for creating trauma-informed training environments to bolster resilience and support officers’ overall well-being.

Data Visualization Techniques (For Regular People) | Dan Fraser

Dan Fraser offers practical advice on how instructors can improve their presentations by effectively using data visualization. He discusses common pitfalls of using complex charts and graphs that may confuse audiences. Fraser provides tips on selecting appropriate visualization methods, simplifying data, and focusing on clear messaging. He emphasizes the use of direct labeling, appropriate contrast, and avoiding unnecessary decorative elements to enhance audience understanding and engagement.

Death by PowerPoint Resuscitation Tactics: 3 Quick Fixes to Take Your Presentation from Ouch to Wow | Antonio Zarzoza, “Instructor Z”

Antonio Zarzoza addresses common issues that make PowerPoint presentations ineffective and offers three quick fixes to enhance them. He suggests eliminating excessive bullet points, using dark backgrounds with contrasting colors for better visibility, and utilizing formatted backgrounds with layered text to create visual harmony. Zarzoza emphasizes the importance of design principles in creating engaging presentations that effectively communicate the intended message to the audience.

Training with P-R-I-D-E | Jason Devlin

Jason Devlin introduces the P-R-I-D-E Adaptive Decision-Making Model, which integrates various concepts like the OODA Loop and Recognition-Primed Decision Making into a cohesive framework. He explains how this model can help trainers teach officers to make better, more consistent decisions under pressure. Devlin shares how the Scottsdale Police Department has successfully implemented this model in their training programs to enhance officer performance and decision-making skills.

The Proper Focus of Report Writing | Christopher E. K. Pfannkuche

Christopher E. K. Pfannkuche emphasizes the importance of proper focus in police report writing. He outlines key concepts such as content, phraseology, and chronology, and highlights the need for reports to paint a clear picture for readers like prosecutors and defense attorneys. Pfannkuche discusses common pitfalls in report writing and offers guidance on how officers can improve their skills to produce professional, detailed, and accurate reports that withstand legal scrutiny.

Police Policy Principles and Training | Thomas J. Lemmer

Thomas J. Lemmer explores the critical role of well-crafted policies in law enforcement agencies. He outlines six core pillars for effective policy development: clarity, courage, consistency, confidence, consensus, and capacity. Lemmer emphasizes that policies should be trainable and attainable, aligning with training programs to enhance performance. He advocates for policies that support legal compliance, ethical behavior, and operational effectiveness to fulfill an agency’s public safety mission.

Professional Jealousy: Taming the Green Eyed Monster | Harvey Hedden

Harvey Hedden examines the issue of professional jealousy within law enforcement agencies and its impact on teamwork and morale. He discusses how envy and frustration can arise when colleagues or supervisors perceive others’ success as a threat. Hedden offers strategies for recognizing and addressing professional jealousy, promoting open communication, and fostering a supportive work environment that values collaboration and mutual respect.

Fraud Alert! How to Recognize and Overcome Imposter Syndrome | Kim Schlau

Kim Schlau discusses imposter syndrome and its effects on law enforcement professionals. She explains how feelings of self-doubt and inadequacy can hinder performance and lead to stress and anxiety. Schlau provides insights into recognizing the signs of imposter syndrome and offers strategies for overcoming it, such as practicing self-compassion, challenging negative self-talk, and embracing failures as opportunities for growth.

Developing and Maintaining Your CIT Program Practically | Nicholas Greco, M.S., BCETS, CATSM, FAAETS

Nicholas Greco provides guidance on establishing and sustaining a Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) program within law enforcement agencies. He discusses practical steps for starting a CIT program, including involving key stakeholders, securing funding, and designing a curriculum that meets training objectives. Greco emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement, community collaboration, and adapting the program to changing needs to effectively support individuals experiencing mental health crises.

The Shelf | Jason Sery

Jason Sery reflects on the cumulative effects of stress and trauma experienced by law enforcement officers throughout their careers. He uses the metaphor of “The Shelf” to describe how officers often store away negative experiences without processing them, which can lead to mental health challenges. Sery advocates for acknowledging and addressing these accumulated stresses, promoting resilience, and supporting officers’ well-being to maintain effectiveness and fulfillment in their careers.

What Does Retirement Look Like For You? | Travis George

Travis George explores the importance of financial planning and preparation for retirement among law enforcement personnel. He poses critical questions officers should consider regarding savings, pensions, insurance, and lifestyle expectations after retirement. George emphasizes proactive planning, seeking financial advice, and setting achievable goals to ensure a secure and fulfilling retirement experience.

Law Enforcement Tactical Medicine | Robert Carlson

Robert Carlson highlights the necessity of tactical medicine training for law enforcement officers. He discusses the limitations of traditional first aid training and introduces the Tactical Emergency Casualty Care (TECC) program as a civilian-focused alternative to military-based Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC). Carlson emphasizes the importance of equipping officers with skills to address life-threatening injuries in tactical environments, enhancing officer and civilian safety during critical incidents.

Tactical Yoga, Squishies, Oil and More… | Traci Ciepiela

Traci Ciepiela introduces unconventional methods for improving officer wellness and alleviating common physical ailments associated with law enforcement work. She discusses practices such as tactical yoga to strengthen joints and muscles, the use of essential oils for pain relief, “squishies” for tension reduction, and tapping techniques to manage anxiety. Ciepiela encourages incorporating these holistic approaches into self-care routines to enhance overall well-being.

Media Relations and Marketing Your Law Enforcement Agency | Andrew DeMuth Jr.

Andrew DeMuth Jr. offers strategies for effectively managing media relations and enhancing the public image of law enforcement agencies. He advocates for a proactive approach to communication, including leveraging social media, engaging with community organizations, and promoting positive stories about the agency’s work. DeMuth emphasizes the importance of transparency, building trust with the public, and adopting marketing principles to tell the agency’s story effectively.

Resilience is an Officer Safety Skill | Michael Marotta

Michael Marotta discusses the critical role of mental and emotional resilience in officer safety and performance. He introduces the R.A.N.G.E. of Resilience framework, which includes Recognizing the good, Active constructive responding, Noticing the world around you, Getting up and moving, and Energy management. Marotta explains how incorporating resilience practices into training can enhance officers’ ability to cope with stress, recover from adversity, and maintain overall well-being.

Suicide Risk Management: Creating a Culture of Psychological Safety | Dr. Nancy Wesselink and Lt. (Ret.) Gerald Richmond, CCFES

Dr. Nancy Wesselink and Gerald Richmond address the pressing issue of suicide among first responders. They discuss how poor leadership and lack of psychological safety within organizations can contribute to stress and mental health challenges. The authors advocate for leaders to create supportive environments, normalize conversations about mental health, and implement policies and training that prioritize officer well-being and trust.

Broader Context Investigations into Domestic Violence Crimes to Prevent Homicide | Christopher Malast

Christopher Malast emphasizes the importance of comprehensive investigations into domestic violence incidents to prevent escalation to homicide. He references the Monckton Smith study, which outlines eight stages of relationships that end in femicide. Malast encourages officers to look beyond individual incidents, recognize patterns of coercive control and stalking, and use this understanding to intervene effectively, support victims, and disrupt the progression toward lethal outcomes.

Change Agent: The Trainer’s Leadership Challenge | Joe Willis

Joe Willis explores how law enforcement trainers can act as change agents by applying “The Five Practices of Exemplary Leadership” from “The Leadership Challenge” by Kouzes and Posner. He discusses how trainers can model the way, inspire a shared vision, challenge processes, enable others to act, and encourage the heart. Willis emphasizes that trainers have a unique opportunity to influence culture and drive positive change within their agencies.

What WE Want: A Study on Police Expectations, the Results | Jason Mazeski

Jason Mazeski presents findings from his research on the expectations and perceptions of police roles from both officers and community members. He discusses how lived experiences shape these expectations and highlights the importance of meaningful engagement between police and communities. Mazeski emphasizes the need for reforms in training that incorporate critical thinking, self-reflection, and cultural sensitivity to bridge gaps and improve relationships.

A Vacuum of Leadership | Dick Fairburn

Dick Fairburn examines the lack of effective leadership training in law enforcement agencies, contrasting it with military models that prioritize leadership development from the outset. He argues that this vacuum of leadership contributes to failures in critical incidents, such as inadequate responses to active shooter situations. Fairburn advocates for implementing military-style leadership training to develop competent field leaders capable of making decisive actions during emergencies.

Planting the Seed for the Next Generation of Law Enforcement | Angeleic Huth

Angeleic Huth discusses strategies for inspiring and preparing high school students to pursue careers in law enforcement. She highlights the importance of starting educational programs, building relationships with schools, and engaging with students through mentorship and job shadowing. Huth emphasizes that cultivating interest among young people is essential for building a diverse and dedicated future workforce in policing.

The ILEETA Journal is a quarterly publication of the International Law Enforcement Educators and Trainers Association (ILEETA), aimed at providing a platform for criminal justice professionals, primarily law enforcement trainers, to exchange information on training-related topics. It features articles, editorials, product reviews, and columns that meet stringent criteria for relevance, factual accuracy, and readability. Submissions are required in Microsoft Word format and should adhere to specific writing styles and grammar guidelines. The Journal ensures that all articles are edited for clarity and length and does not accept content promoting products or services.

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