#ILEETALive with Fletch Fuller
Join Brian, Todd, and Billy in a conversation with Fletch Fuller, a seasoned law enforcement officer from the Collier County Sheriff’s Office in Naples, Florida. In this episode, we delve into Fletch’s extensive experience in law enforcement training, his journey from military service to becoming a full-time defensive tactics instructor, and his innovative approach to integrating Jiu-Jitsu into police training programs. Discover the importance of continuous, pressure-tested training and how it enhances officer safety and effectiveness. Fletch shares his insights on modernizing defensive tactics, addressing controversial topics like positional asphyxia, and fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement. With nearly three decades of law enforcement experience, Fletch brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for advancing practical and impactful training methods.
Episode Details:
- Date: July 15, 2024
- Hosts:
- Brian Hill
- Todd Fletcher
- Billy Ethridge
- Guest: Fletch Fuller
Introduction
- Host’s Opening Remarks:
- Greetings to everyone and welcome to the July edition of #ILEETALive.
- Introduction of special guest Fletch Fuller from Florida.
Guest Introduction
- Fletch Fuller:
- Active duty law enforcement officer with 28 years at the Collier County Sheriff’s Office in Naples, Florida.
- Military background with seven years in the Army as an MP.
- Started training involvement in 1998 and became a full-time instructor around 2004-2005.
- Currently focused on defensive tactics and various use-of-force training, including Taser and OC spray.
- Discussed the creation of a new training position based on his resume and qualifications.
Discussion Points
- Training Journey:
- Fletch shared his path from being a part-time to a full-time defensive tactics instructor.
- Importance of training and adapting techniques to ensure officer safety and effectiveness.
- New Training Program:
- Fletch’s recent project involving Jiu-Jitsu training for new recruits as part of their FTO program.
- Goals to provide hands-on experience and problem-solving skills.
- Combative Summit:
- Fletch’s participation in the Combative Summit and its objectives.
- Highlighted the integration of different disciplines (defensive tactics, firearms, knife skills) for comprehensive training.
- Training Philosophy:
- Importance of regular, pressure-tested training for law enforcement officers.
- Encouragement for officers to engage in continuous learning and adapt to new training methods.
- Addressing Positional Asphyxia:
- Discussion on the controversial topic of positional asphyxia.
- Emphasis on efficient and quick restraint techniques to minimize risks.
Audience Interaction
- Questions and Comments:
- Discussion on vetting new training programs and techniques.
- Importance of practical, hands-on experience and training frequency.
- Audience engagement on the topic of positional asphyxia and its implications in law enforcement training.
Closing Remarks
- Upcoming Events:
- Reminder about the ILEETA Conference in March with 251 days left.
- Encouragement for new instructors to submit their proposals by October 31st.
- Mention of ILEETA Journal article submissions due by September 10th.
- Final Thoughts:
- Hosts and guests expressed their enthusiasm for continuous improvement in law enforcement training.
- Encouragement for members to stay engaged and participate in upcoming events and training opportunities.
Contact Information
- Fletch Fuller:
- Available for further questions and training inquiries.
- Emphasized the importance of being approachable and open to continuous learning.
- Hosts and Participants:
- Brian Hill, Todd Fletcher, and Billy Ethridge signed off with appreciation for the discussion and engagement.
Follow-Up
- Next Episode:
- Teasers for future topics and special guests.
- Encouragement to subscribe to the ILEETA YouTube channel for updates and new content.
Notes
- Episode Duration:
- Total time: Approximately 1 hour.
- Important Links:
- ILEETA website: www.ileeta.org
- Combatives Summit: Combatives Summit
- ILEETA Journal submission: ILEETA Journal
Conclusion
- Thank you to all viewers and participants.
- Encouragement to stay safe, continue learning, and engage with the ILEETA community.