In this Edition:

Tactical Nervous System Training: Biofeedback for the Badge | Patrick Scott Welsh & Melis Yilmaz Balban
This article introduces biofeedback as the next frontier in law enforcement readiness. Welsh and Balban explain how training the nervous system to recognize and regulate stress responses improves judgment, decision-making, and resilience. By integrating biofeedback into police training, agencies can enhance performance, reduce use-of-force errors, and foster healthier, more adaptive officers.

Chaos as an Ally | Fabio Gomes
Fabio Gomes reframes chaos as an opportunity rather than a threat, drawing from classical Chinese strategy and modern security experience. He argues that adaptability, not control, determines success in crisis. Gomes encourages professionals to view adversity as a mirror that reveals preparedness, using flexibility and clarity to transform disruption into strategic advantage.

Training and Testing Policies | Harvey Hedden
Harvey Hedden highlights the importance of training officers to understand and apply departmental policies rather than simply acknowledging them. He explains how scenario-based testing, mock examinations, and regular feedback strengthen policy comprehension, improve courtroom testimony, and reduce liability. Hedden concludes that deliberate policy training enhances confidence, performance, and agency integrity.

Closing the Gap Between What We Teach and What They Do | Jeff Johnsgaard
Jeff Johnsgaard urges agencies to embed research-based learning principles directly into lesson plans rather than relying on individual instructor talent. He introduces curriculum assessment as a method to ensure institutional consistency and long-term improvement. By applying strategies such as precise feedback, progressive variability, and cognitive boosting, trainers can enhance retention, decision-making, and real-world performance.

Shine On | Jason Der
Jason Der reflects on the power of collaboration within ILEETA, connecting it to Shine Theory, the belief that “if you shine, I shine.” Citing examples from athletics, leadership, and peer learning, Der encourages trainers to elevate each other through shared credit, recognition, and support. He reminds members that the profession grows stronger when instructors celebrate one another’s success.

Part Two: Why Fire Investigation Matters for Every Law Enforcement Officer | Jason “Nubs” Dunn
Jason Dunn continues his fire investigation series, highlighting essential skills all officers should possess. He covers fire behavior, scene preservation, evidence collection, interagency collaboration, and interviewing techniques. Dunn emphasizes ongoing education as critical to maintaining investigative competence and previews Part Three, which will explore advanced forensic analysis.

The Illusion of Readiness: Human Factors Lessons from Taser Training | Dan Fraser
Dan Fraser explains why many officers struggle with weapon transitions under pressure, revealing that switching from a Taser to a firearm can take longer than expected, sometimes as long as a knife attack from 21 feet. He argues that traditional flat-range training leaves officers unprepared for real-world stress. Fraser advocates for realistic, variable training that builds resilient motor skills and true readiness.

Buddy Check: What Have You Done? | Todd Fletcher
Todd Fletcher challenges trainers to revisit lessons from the 2025 ILEETA Conference and apply them before they fade. He urges instructors to update outdated materials, foster a positive training culture, and rekindle passion in their classrooms. Drawing on Maya Angelou’s wisdom to “know better, do better,” Fletcher reminds trainers that growth (both personal and professional) must be intentional and ongoing.

The Softer Side of Hard Skills Training | Chrystal Fletcher
Chrystal Fletcher explores the balance between technical proficiency and human connection in training. She cautions against “training scars” and “training calluses” that develop from poor design or negative experiences, and emphasizes empathy, team learning, and mentoring. By creating psychologically safe, student-centered environments, trainers can ensure lasting skill development and genuine enthusiasm for learning.

Systems Weaponized Against Officers | Kevin R. Davis
Kevin Davis examines how legal, political, social, and media systems have evolved to disadvantage officers involved in critical incidents. Using a recent Ohio OIS case, he highlights delays caused by outside investigations, cautious prosecutors, and weak public support from leadership. Davis stresses that training, professional support, and ILEETA membership are key to protecting officers amid these mounting external pressures.

Threat Error Management: From Aviation to Law Enforcement | Tom Snelling
Drawing on his aviation background, Tom Snelling calls for more low-light and night training in policing, noting that most shootings and assaults occur in diminished light. He discusses obstacles such as range restrictions and safety concerns but offers practical alternatives like indoor drills, simulation tools, and non-firearms exercises. Snelling urges instructors to advocate for comprehensive, stress-based low-light training where “the majority of bad things happen in the dark.”

From Connection to Capability: Competency-Based Training and National Qualifications in Australia | Ian Tindale
Ian Tindale outlines how Australia’s competency-based training system underpins professional development across corrections and law enforcement. He explains how the national qualifications framework promotes reflective practice, cultural safety, and ethical leadership. Despite trainer shortages and systemic pressures, Tindale emphasizes that competency-based training has elevated corrections into a more professional, human centred, and accountable sector.

Book Review: Ohara’s Fundamentals of Criminal Investigation, 10th ed. | Reviewed by Dr. Sue Weaver
Sue Weaver reviews D.D. Woods Jr.’s comprehensive investigative text, praising its practical detail and relevance for professionals and graduate students. The book’s clear structure and diagrams make it valuable for academy and field use, though Weaver notes dated references and limited support for undergraduate instruction. Overall, she recommends it as a strong professional reference and teaching resource.

What’s Wrong With Your Training? | Duane Wolfe
Duane Wolfe examines research showing that block-style police training produces rapid skill decay. He urges instructors to replace outdated methods with integrated, scenario-based practice and testing that reinforce retention and decision-making. Wolfe challenges trainers to embrace evidence-based strategies, continuous professional development, and the shared standards promoted through ILEETA.

The Leadership Challenge | Gary York
Gary York explores the elements of effective leadership in law enforcement: vision, culture, emotional fuel, and social support. He urges leaders to model passion, recognize staff achievements, and build trust to prevent burnout. Drawing on both academic theory and frontline experience, York reminds readers that true leadership is about inspiring others to grow, serve, and sustain a positive culture.