ILEETA Journal: Conference Edition | 2024

The ILEETA Journal

Conference Edition | 2024

The 2024 ILEETA Conference Edition is packed with 38 insightful articles on topics ranging from policy to mental health, reflecting the expanding horizons of law enforcement training. Whether attending in person or from afar, this edition bridges the gap, offering valuable insights and helping attendees navigate the week’s sessions. It celebrates the sense of community and shared mission, encouraging connections, knowledge sharing, and the pursuit of excellence in service. Prepare for an enriching experience and look forward to better law enforcement training!

In this Edition:

Maximizing Your ILEETA Conference | Harvey Hedden

To maximize your ILEETA Conference experience, plan ahead and actively engage in the event. Identify backup support at work, set up email and voicemail auto responses, and review the conference curriculum to select sessions that meet your training needs. Use the ILEETA Conference Guidebook app to manage your schedule and connect with other attendees. Bring necessary training equipment and participate fully, including in networking opportunities. Stay organized, take notes, and share your learnings with colleagues upon returning to work.

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

Welcome to St. Louis for the 2024 ILEETA Conference! St. Louis is home to rich history and exciting attractions. From the iconic Gateway Arch and Union Station to the lively Ballpark Village, there’s so much to explore. Indulge in the city’s renowned Italian cuisine in The Hill, visit the Missouri Botanical Gardens, or stroll through the massive Forest Park. Whether it’s your first time or you’re returning, St. Louis offers endless opportunities to enhance your ILEETA experience!

#EmersonHour 2024 | Joe Willis

Join us for the highly anticipated #EmersonHour at the 2024 ILEETA Conference! Taking place Monday night at 7:00 pm in Midway 5, this unique event features six secret speakers delivering powerful 9-minute talks without PowerPoints or videos. Inspired by Ralph Waldo Emerson’s timeless question, “What has become clear to you since we last met?”, attendees will experience insightful reflections and vibrant post-event discussions. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and be inspired by fellow law enforcement trainers. See you there! #ILEETA2024 #EmersonHour2024 #Training

Making the Case | Kevin Davis

In “Making the Case” at the 2024 ILEETA Conference, Kevin Davis discusses the legal risks officers face after use-of-force incidents. He highlights how progressive prosecutors are charging officers in lawful situations, leading to criminal trials. The session will explore case studies, legal standards, body cam footage, and trial tactics, preparing officers to defend themselves in court. Davis emphasizes the importance of training officers to anticipate legal challenges and build their defense from the start. Join Kevin at the conference to learn how to prepare officers to win.

Basics Don’t Have to be Boring | Todd Fletcher

In “Basics Don’t Have to be Boring,” Todd Fletcher emphasizes that firearms training can be engaging and effective by making marksmanship fun and informative. His live-fire range class challenges fundamental skills, pushing officers beyond their comfort zones while focusing on practical marksmanship and coaching techniques. With drills aimed at improving accuracy, sight picture, and trigger control, Fletcher’s approach reinvents traditional firearms training. He stresses the importance of active participation, real-time feedback, and adapting to training culture to elevate student performance and enhance skill retention.

Developing Concealed Carry Training Program for Law Enforcement | Lou Ann Hamblin

In “Developing Concealed Carry Training Program for Law Enforcement,” Lou Ann Hamblin shares her experience in creating a concealed carry program for the State of Alaska. The program addresses the unique needs of law enforcement, including equipment considerations, policy development, and live fire training from concealment. Hamblin emphasizes the importance of providing instructors with the resources to develop their own agency-specific programs, reducing blue-on-blue incidents and addressing the evolving landscape of concealed carry in law enforcement.

Shooting with Science | Duane Wolfe

In “Shooting with Science,” Duane Wolfe explores the research and training methodologies aimed at enhancing police officer shooting performance. The session at the 2024 ILEETA Conference covers topics such as the Quiet Eye method, physiological effects of stress, trigger finger placement, and interleaving, among others. Wolfe answers practical questions on how to improve officer performance both on the range and in real-world situations, offering foundational strategies to enhance accuracy and effectiveness under pressure. This class is designed for both officers and firearms instructors.

Compatibility & Interoperability Within a Complex ASHER | Scott M Hyderkhan

Scott M. Hyderkhan’s article “Compatibility & Interoperability Within a Complex ASHER” analyzes the operational shortcomings in responses to active shooter events like the Robb Elementary School tragedy. The article emphasizes the importance of cohesive planning, interoperability, and compatibility among law enforcement, fire departments, and other responders during Active Shooter Hostile Event Responses (ASHER). Hyderkhan highlights critical lessons from past incidents and proposes a structured doctrine for improving leadership, coordination, and communication in these high-stakes situations, ensuring a more efficient and effective response to complex, multi-agency emergencies.

Ecological Dynamics: Rethinking Use of Force | Jeff Johnsgaard

In “Ecological Dynamics: Rethinking Use of Force,” Jeff Johnsgaard explores a non-traditional training approach called Ecological Dynamics and the Constraints Led Approach, which has seen success in fields like law enforcement, NFL, and MMA. The session at ILEETA 2024 will focus on the science behind improving officer performance in high-stress scenarios, like charging knife attacks. Johnsgaard presents key takeaways from recent research, highlighting how this approach can help officers respond faster and more effectively in critical situations. Practical examples for immediate application in training will be demonstrated.

Mastering the Art of Supervising Use of Force | Tyson Kilbey

In “Mastering the Art of Supervising Use of Force,” Tyson Kilbey emphasizes the crucial role of front-line supervisors in leading safe and effective use of force encounters. He outlines five key areas: mastering foundational knowledge, preparing staff for dynamic situations, managing scenes effectively, ensuring proper articulation of actions, and conducting debriefs to learn from past incidents. By focusing on these elements, supervisors can enhance performance, ensure compliance with laws and policies, and improve overall safety for their staff, agency, and community.

The Remington 870 | Carlos Kerley Jr.

In “The Remington 870,” Carlos Kerley Jr. reflects on the long-standing role of the Remington 870 shotgun in law enforcement, sharing insights from his 35-year career and extensive experience as a firearms instructor. Despite some agencies phasing out shotguns, the 870 remains vital. Kerley’s ILEETA class, based on his practical knowledge and armorer experience, covers the intricacies of maintaining and inspecting the 870. Attendees will gain hands-on experience, tools, and resources to help them continue utilizing this iconic firearm in their agencies.

Four Ways Mindful Marksmanship Optimize Performance | Melissa Aguirre

In this article, Melissa Aguirre emphasizes the growing importance of mindfulness in law enforcement training, focusing on its role in enhancing mental clarity, stress regulation, and overall performance. She introduces the concept of “Mindful Marksmanship,” which integrates mindfulness techniques such as breath control, kinesthetic awareness, mindset training, and self-awareness into firearms training. These techniques help officers improve precision, posture, and decision-making under stress, while fostering mental well-being and operational readiness. Aguirre advocates for incorporating these holistic practices into law enforcement training for better performance and long-term sustainability.

Trigger Drills: The Foundation of Perfect Handgun Practice | Art Aplan

In “Trigger Drills: The Foundation of Perfect Handgun Practice,” Art Aplan emphasizes the importance of mastering trigger control in law enforcement firearms training. Aplan outlines several key trigger drills, initially developed by former LAPD Firearms Instructor Larry Mudgett, that isolate and improve shooter performance without the distractions of live fire. These drills, using dummy rounds and hands-on instruction, help instructors identify and correct bad habits early. Aplan’s program has reduced ammunition usage and failure rates, ultimately increasing shooter confidence and competence in real-world scenarios.

Understanding Deadly Force Encounters | Brendan Bartley

In “Understanding Deadly Force Encounters,” Brendan Bartley emphasizes the importance of preparing law enforcement officers for deadly force situations. Bartley outlines the need for comprehensive training that includes legal knowledge, mental resilience, physical fitness, and technical proficiency with firearms. He stresses that officers must be able to make well-informed decisions under extreme stress, and that instructors should create realistic training environments to build confidence and decision-making skills. His class aims to enhance training programs to ensure officers are better equipped for high-stakes encounters.

Enhancing Officer Safety and Community Relations: The BolaWrap Solution | Rodney Sherrod

In this article, Rodney Sherrod discusses the BolaWrap, an innovative tool from Wrap Technologies designed to safely restrain individuals from a distance, minimizing injury risks and reducing the need for higher levels of force. Sherrod highlights the challenges law enforcement faces with traditional use-of-force methods and emphasizes how BolaWrap serves as a non-lethal, pre-escalation option that can improve officer safety and community relations. The device deploys a Kevlar tether to entangle subjects without relying on pain compliance, offering a solution that aligns with calls for policing reforms and better de-escalation strategies.

Use of Force Articulation | Paul Duffy

In “Use of Force Articulation,” Paul Duffy emphasizes the critical importance of effectively articulating use-of-force incidents in both verbal and written reports. He discusses how poor articulation can make reasonable actions appear unreasonable, potentially exposing officers to administrative, civil, or criminal liabilities. Duffy advocates for incorporating articulation training into reality-based scenarios, allowing officers to practice narrating their actions and decisions. He outlines key elements of effective articulation, including using sensory details, facts rather than conclusions, and referencing training and experience. By enhancing articulation skills, officers can better convey the reasonableness of their actions, thus protecting themselves legally and professionally.

REPULS Irritant Chemical Spray | Mike Kleber

In this article, Mike Kleber introduces REPULS Irritant Spray, a new water-based chemical irritant developed by Crotega Safety Solutions LLC. REPULS offers law enforcement a safer and more effective alternative to traditional OC/Pepper Spray. Unlike aerosols, REPULS delivers a ballistic stream that minimizes cross-contamination and is quickly mitigated by flushing with water. It induces immediate eye irritation without permanent injury, aiding in the safe apprehension of suspects. Kleber highlights the growing endorsement of REPULS across law enforcement agencies in the U.S., noting its approval for indoor use and its alignment with evolving guidelines for non-lethal use-of-force options.

Unlocking the Potential of Interactive Elearning: A BYOD Session | Kerry Avery, MEd.

In this article, Kerry Avery discusses the benefits of interactive eLearning for law enforcement training and introduces a “Bring Your Own Device” (BYOD) session focused on using Articulate Storyline 360 software. Avery highlights how interactive eLearning increases accessibility, provides immediate feedback, and offers cost-effective training solutions. The session aims to equip trainers with the skills to create engaging, interactive modules that include decision-making scenarios and quizzes. By attending, participants will gain hands-on experience in developing their own eLearning content, ultimately enhancing the effectiveness of training programs and better preparing officers for the field.

Rock Your Opening | Dan Fraser

In “Rock Your Opening,” Dan Fraser emphasizes the importance of capturing an audience’s attention at the very start of a presentation. He critiques common, dull openings and suggests engaging alternatives such as starting with a compelling story, asking a provocative question, or surprising the audience with an unexpected statement. Fraser argues that an impactful opening is crucial for ensuring that the audience is emotionally engaged and receptive to the message. By employing these techniques, presenters can set themselves apart and enhance the retention and transfer of the information they convey.

Course Design for Dummies | Jason Der

In “Course Design for Dummies,” Jason Der introduces the “Understanding by Design” (UbD) framework for creating effective training programs. UbD, also known as backward design, starts with identifying desired learning outcomes and assessments before planning instructional activities. Der outlines the three stages of UbD: defining learning goals, determining acceptable evidence of learning, and planning engaging learning experiences. By focusing on what students should understand and be able to do, instructors can create student-centered courses that promote deeper learning and skill application. Der advocates for this approach as a means to develop more effective and adaptive training programs.

Elevating Law Enforcement Training: The Imperative of Adaptive Leadership | Al Bello

In this article, Al Bello discusses the need for adaptive leadership training in law enforcement to address the complex challenges officers face today. Bello introduces the Adaptive Leader program, which aims to equip officers with cognitive and emotional intelligence skills, adaptability, and leadership capabilities beyond traditional tactical training. He highlights the benefits of this approach, including improved decision-making under pressure, enhanced resilience, better community relations, and staying ahead of evolving threats. Bello encourages trainers and department leaders to embrace adaptive leadership principles to fundamentally transform law enforcement operations and better prepare officers for current and future demands.

Elevate Your Training: The Power of Improv in Law Enforcement | Jessica Crowley

In this article, Jessica Crowley explores how incorporating improvisation techniques into law enforcement training can enhance officer performance and well-being. She explains that improv fosters skills like active listening, adaptability, creative problem-solving, and clear communication—essential for officers facing unpredictable situations. Crowley shares her personal experience using the “Yes And” principle to improve team engagement and collaboration. By integrating improv exercises into training, officers can develop resilience, reduce stress, and foster a supportive team environment, ultimately leading to a more confident and connected police force.

Assessing Training: How Do We Improve Teaching and Learning | Kelly Enos

In “Assessing Training: How Do We Improve Teaching and Learning,” Kelly Enos emphasizes the importance of evaluating both teaching effectiveness and student learning in law enforcement training. He introduces several assessment techniques used in academia that can be applied to police training, such as the “Muddiest Paper” exercise, mid-workshop evaluations, and interactive student response systems like Kahoot. These methods help instructors identify gaps in learning, adjust teaching strategies in real-time, and enhance student engagement. Enos advocates for a continuous feedback loop where instructors regularly assess and improve their teaching to ensure effective learning outcomes.

RDS Transition: Proven Teaching Methods | Ron LaPedis

In this article, Ron LaPedis discusses effective teaching methods for transitioning law enforcement officers from iron sights to Red Dot Sights (RDS) on handguns. Drawing from his experiences with the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office training program, LaPedis emphasizes the importance of building motor pathways through repetition and starting with fundamental drills. He outlines specific exercises designed to help students consistently find the dot without “fishing,” improve trigger control, and enhance accuracy under various conditions. LaPedis advocates for a structured, experience-based approach to RDS training that focuses on accuracy over precision and prepares officers for real-world scenarios.

Opportunities for Trainers to Support Constitutional Decision-Making | Dianne Beer-Maxwell, Jon Blum, Tim Bonadies, and Randy Means

In this article, the authors highlight the critical role of law enforcement trainers in reinforcing constitutional decision-making among officers. They note that while officers receive basic legal education during their academy training, ongoing reinforcement is necessary to ensure they can apply constitutional principles effectively in the field. The article discusses research indicating that integrating constitutional content throughout training enhances retention and application. The authors introduce resources developed by the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training (IADLEST), designed to help trainers close gaps in officers’ legal competence and confidence. They encourage trainers to utilize these tools to improve constitutional policing and uphold public trust.

Color Management in PowerPoint: Unlocking the Magic of Color Psychology in Presentation Design | Antonio Zarzoza “Instructor Z”

In this article, Antonio Zarzoza, known as “Instructor Z,” delves into the importance of color psychology in creating effective PowerPoint presentations for law enforcement training. He explains how different colors can evoke specific emotions and influence audience perceptions, making color selection crucial regardless of the presentation topic. Zarzoza discusses how warm and cool colors can be used strategically to emphasize key points or convey trust and stability. He also covers the use of contrast, branding considerations, and cultural differences in color perception. By understanding and applying these principles, trainers can design presentations that are more engaging, memorable, and impactful.

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

In “Fraud Alert! How to Recognize and Overcome Imposter Syndrome,” Kim Schlau addresses the common feelings of self-doubt and inadequacy known as imposter syndrome, which affects an estimated 70% of people at some point. Schlau explains how negative self-talk and unrealistic expectations contribute to these feelings, leading individuals to doubt their accomplishments despite evidence of their competence. She offers strategies for recognizing triggers, practicing self-compassion, and reframing failures as learning opportunities. By understanding and confronting imposter syndrome, individuals can break the cycle of self-doubt, improve their confidence, and lead more fulfilling personal and professional lives.

Playing Devil’s Advocate to Write Rock-Solid Police Reports | Christopher E. K. Pfannkuche

In this article, Christopher E. K. Pfannkuche emphasizes the importance of thorough and impartial police report writing to withstand scrutiny in court. He introduces the concept of “Playing Devil’s Advocate”—anticipating questions and challenges that defense attorneys might raise—and incorporating detailed, factual information to preemptively address them. Pfannkuche outlines his “AAA Template”: Accumulate all relevant information, Anticipate potential legal issues, and Articulate the facts clearly. He stresses adhering to the “Four-Corners Rule,” ensuring that all critical details are included in the report to avoid being impeached on the stand. By following these guidelines, officers can enhance their credibility and strengthen their cases in court.

C.O.P.S – Before the Tragedy | Sarah Slone

In “C.O.P.S – Before the Tragedy,” Sarah Slone discusses the efforts of Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.) to support law enforcement agencies before critical incidents occur. She highlights the organization’s training programs, such as the Traumas of Law Enforcement Trainings and the National Conference on Law Enforcement Wellness & Trauma, which focus on health, wellness, preparedness, and peer support. Slone emphasizes the importance of agencies being aware of C.O.P.S.’ resources proactively, rather than only after a line-of-duty death. By engaging with these programs, departments can better support their officers’ mental health, develop effective response policies, and foster resilience within their ranks.

Four Tips for Financial Freedom | Travis George

In this article, Travis George offers financial planning advice specifically tailored for law enforcement officers (LEOs) considering early retirement due to job stress. He emphasizes the importance of understanding pension benefits, noting that while pensions are valuable, they may not fully cover the desired lifestyle in retirement. George advises officers to save and invest through retirement accounts like 457(b), 401(k), traditional, and Roth IRAs to supplement their pensions. He also suggests considering a second career post-retirement to achieve income goals and stresses the necessity of having a comprehensive financial plan that includes investment management, estate planning, tax planning, and retirement income planning. George encourages officers to equip themselves with financial knowledge to secure their future.

Medical Training Suited for Your Operating Environment | Robert Carlson

Robert Carlson emphasizes the importance of tailoring medical training for law enforcement officers to fit their specific operational conditions and the types of injuries they are likely to encounter. He points out that officers primarily deal with trauma injuries in unsafe environments, requiring training focused on providing critical care under hazardous conditions and safely moving casualties. Carlson discusses the increased risk of ambush attacks on officers and highlights the necessity of training in casualty movement techniques. He also addresses the unique medical training needs of firearms instructors, stressing the importance of preparing for common injuries in training environments and planning for accident prevention. Carlson’s ILEETA sessions aim to equip officers with practical skills for casualty movements and medical response.

Tactical Yoga and More… | Traci Ciepiela

In “Tactical Yoga and More…,” Traci Ciepiela introduces a program designed to alleviate common physical issues faced by law enforcement officers, such as knee pain, back pain, sleeplessness, and stress. Sharing her personal experience, Ciepiela explains how specific yoga movements strengthened her muscles and eliminated knee pain without the need for surgery. She emphasizes that the yoga practices are practical and accessible, mostly performed on the ground without complex poses. Additionally, she discusses other tools and techniques for pain relief and stress reduction, including “Squishies” for migraine relief, tapping for anxiety, and methods to improve sleep quality. Her session aims to provide officers with practical strategies to enhance their physical and mental well-being.

The Greatest Sin of Law Enforcement | Andrew DeMuth Jr.

Andrew DeMuth Jr. critiques the widespread lack of adequate training provided to new front-line supervisors in law enforcement agencies, labeling it as a significant failure in the profession. He argues that promoting officers to supervisory roles without proper preparation exposes them and their agencies to liabilities and undermines effective leadership. DeMuth highlights the complex challenges front-line supervisors face, including leading teams in dangerous situations and managing personnel issues. He introduces a comprehensive leadership development program that agencies can implement, which includes orientation, equipment issuance, and a phased training plan akin to a Field Training Program for supervisors. DeMuth’s goal is to set new supervisors up for success and protect organizations from legal and operational risks.

Girl on a Billboard | R. “Doc” Davis

R. “Doc” Davis recounts a critical incident involving a teenage girl threatening suicide by sitting on a billboard’s catwalk. He highlights a series of failures during the incident, including policy breaches, errors in judgment, and a lack of awareness regarding officer well-being. Only two negotiators were called to the scene, contrary to policy, and the scene commander focused on taking photos for social media rather than supporting the officers. Davis emphasizes the importance of proper leadership, adherence to policy, and attention to the psychological impact such events have on officers. His debrief underscores the need for best practices and effective communication in crisis situations to prevent similar failures in the future.

Suicide: The Biggest Threat to Officer Safety | Dr. Nancy Wesselink and Lt. (Ret.) Gerald Richmond, CCFES

Dr. Nancy Wesselink and Lt. (Ret.) Gerald Richmond address the alarming rates of suicide among first responders, which are approximately twice that of the general population. They explore why, despite the availability of resources, first responders continue to struggle with mental health issues leading to suicide. The authors identify stigma, lack of trust in the process, and unsupportive leadership as significant barriers to seeking help. They propose a comprehensive approach involving leadership commitment to mental wellness, effective peer support programs, and access to culturally competent mental health resources. By creating a psychologically safe work environment and normalizing conversations about mental health, they aim to reduce suicide rates and enhance overall well-being among first responders.

Constitutional Policing: What 45 Years of Teaching This Topic Has Taught Me | Attorney Randy Means, J.D.

Attorney Randy Means reflects on his extensive experience teaching constitutional policing over 45 years. He discusses the challenges of ensuring that officers not only understand but also properly apply constitutional principles in their daily duties. Means emphasizes that constitutional policing goes beyond mere adherence to the law; it encompasses ethics, community trust, procedural justice, and effective leadership. He addresses discrepancies in defining constitutional policing and the confusion that can arise from varying local mandates and policies. Means advocates for prioritized training tiers, committed leadership, and integrated approaches that reduce errors and enhance constitutional compliance. His insights aim to help trainers and leaders better prepare officers for the complex legal and ethical landscape of modern policing.

Cultivating the Next Generation of Law Enforcement | Angeleic Huth

Angeleic Huth discusses the importance of high school law enforcement programs in attracting and cultivating the next generation of officers. She explains what Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs are and how they introduce students to law enforcement careers through practical and theoretical learning. Huth highlights the challenges these programs face, including declining enrollment due to negative perceptions of law enforcement. She emphasizes the role of current professionals in engaging with students by starting programs, serving as guest speakers, offering mentorships, and creating job shadowing opportunities. By investing in youth and sharing positive experiences, law enforcement officers can influence the profession’s future and build trust within the community.

Success Strategies for the FTO and Frontline Leader | Steve Pratt

Steve Pratt addresses the evolving challenges faced by Field Training Officers (FTOs) and frontline leaders in law enforcement. He emphasizes the need for effective strategies to develop new officers who will remain in and thrive within the profession. Pratt discusses the importance of understanding whether one’s role is that of a trainer, instructor, or educator to tailor the development approach appropriately. He introduces concepts from the field of negotiations, such as tactical empathy, to enhance communication and debriefing skills. Pratt also highlights the significance of teaching trainees how to retain and retrieve knowledge and suggests methods to evaluate their understanding. By employing tools like SWOT analysis, FTOs and leaders can better assess and develop their personnel.

Community Policing: Putting the Unity Back into the Community | Steve Sheridan

Steve Sheridan explores the persistent challenges in developing effective community policing programs. He questions why such programs often struggle or fail to sustain success. Sheridan emphasizes the importance of a shared understanding between law enforcement and the community regarding the mission and responsibilities of each. He points out that inconsistent missions among agencies and a lack of common knowledge about crime prevention hinder collaborative efforts. By revisiting foundational principles like the Peelian Principles and emphasizing leadership at all levels, Sheridan advocates for engaging the community to foster commitment rather than mere compliance. His goal is to reestablish unity in community policing by recognizing everyone’s role in public safety.

Suicidal Subjects: Recognition, Communication and the Law | Troy Siewert

Troy Siewert addresses the frequent encounters law enforcement officers have with individuals contemplating or attempting suicide and the lack of formal training to handle such situations effectively. He introduces the R-E-D Strategy—a three-step approach consisting of Rapport and Explore, Evaluate and Collaborate, and Document Appropriately—to guide officers through these sensitive interactions. Siewert emphasizes the importance of gathering quality information, understanding the dynamics of a suicidal crisis, and connecting individuals with appropriate resources. He also discusses legal considerations, highlighting that officers generally do not have a legal duty to protect individuals from self-harm and must be aware of legal concepts like state-created danger and Fourth Amendment rights. By employing this strategy, officers can navigate these calls with greater confidence and effectiveness.

Lies, Cons and Psychopaths | Martin J. Smith PhD.

Martin J. Smith, PhD, delves into understanding individuals with “dark personality” traits, including psychopathy, and how they can manipulate and deceive others, including law enforcement officers. He explains that such individuals use impression management tactics, weaponized language, and manipulation to control interactions. Smith outlines common indicators of controlling, intimidating, and manipulative (CIM) personalities and discusses how they exploit vulnerabilities by creating uncertainty and leveraging personal weaknesses. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing these behaviors to prevent being manipulated or “played.” By understanding these tactics, officers can develop defenses against manipulation and handle interactions with such individuals more effectively.

Narcissist Abuse: The Unspoken Trauma | Gina Rivera Sokolich

Gina Rivera Sokolich addresses the challenges law enforcement officers face when interacting with individuals exhibiting narcissistic traits. She outlines key characteristics of narcissists, such as an inflated sense of entitlement, manipulation, lack of empathy, and aggression when their self-image is threatened. Rivera Sokolich explains how narcissistic individuals can complicate police work by interfering with investigations and making situations more difficult to manage. She emphasizes the importance of officers being aware of these behaviors to maintain clear boundaries and prioritize safety. The article also highlights the impact of narcissistic abuse on officers themselves and offers support resources for those affected. Rivera Sokolich encourages officers to learn about these dynamics to prevent manipulative individuals from causing harm in both professional and personal contexts.

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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