Non-Escalation & De-Escalation as Force Alternative

This course has been approved by ILETSB to meet the following mandates:

Crisis Intervention 3 Hours

Use of Force:

De-escalation Techniques 2 Hours

Law Concerning Stops, Searches, and use of Force 2.5 Hours

Officer Safety Techniques .5 Hours

COURSE OVERVIEW:                  

Effective communication skills can assist law enforcement in preventing unnecessary injuries to

both officers and citizens, while reducing liability exposure to agencies and units of government.

This course will encompass communication skills necessary to prevent escalation in potentially

intensifying circumstances when people are in crisis. If events worsen, students will learn communication skills shown to deescalate potentially violent encounters. Participants will also learn about the rights of citizens to peacefully assemble and express their first amendment rights vs. situations that would justify an arrest. Additionally, participants will learn proper use of force based on prevailing case law and U.S.Supreme Court decisions. Instruction will include video examples of contemporary events.

METHODS OF INSTRUCTION:    This course is conducted using the following methods of instruction:

• In-class review of student handout materials
• In-class lecture
• In-class discussions
• Instructor demonstrations of strategies and techniques
• In-class analysis of video scenarios

RECOMMENDED INSTRUCTIONAL AIDS:    Instructors will utilize a lap top computer, multi-media projector, and screen when teaching this program. Instructors will also need a space for scenario-based exercises. 

TOPICAL OUTLINE

The times for each course section is an estimate.  The time varies on each, depending on class participation and questions.  Some sections may be more time, and some may be less.

INTRODUCTION AND OVERVIEW OF COURSE AND EXPECTATIONS

            (.25 MINUTES)  

2. USE OF FORCE                        

1. Using the Use of Force Continuum in conjunction with Case Law

(1.5 HOURS)

2. Reasonable Force Standards

(.5 HOURS)

3. Class participation in analysis of use of force-using videos of real-life scenarios

(2 HOURS)

4. Strategy & Tactics – Interview Stance, Distance + Cover = Time

(.5 HOURS)

5. Civil Rights and Legal Issues

(.5 HOURS)

3. NON-ESCALATION TECHNIQUES/DE-ESCALATION TECHNIQUES

1. What is a Crisis and how do we intervene, and the importance of non-escalation and de-escalation skills?

(.25 hours)

2. Communication skills and tactics to prevent escalation

(1.25 HOURS)

1. 8-step concept
2. 5-step
3. S.A.F.E.R. violations
4. Empathy phrases
5. 8-step traffic stop
6. Mindset
7. Class participation in analysis of videos

3. Communication skills and tactics to de-escalate an already escalated situation

(1.25 HOURS)

1. 8-step
2. 5-step
3. S.A.F.E.R violations
4. Empathy phrases
5. 8-step traffic stop
6. Mindset
7. Class participation in analysis of videos

4. DISCUSSION, SUMMARY, AND EVALUATION

(.25 hours)