Use of Force Investigations (Training Force USA)

Public attention and scrutiny to the use of force by law enforcement has increased in recent years and our communities expect our agencies to conduct thorough investigations into these incidents.  The media and some of our community leaders are questioning law enforcement's accountability and responsibility in allegations of misconduct and excessive force.  As a result, managing complaints and investigating use of force incidents has become a crucial function for first-line supervisors and commanders.

The class focuses on two main objectives: why it is essential to conduct a complete, accurate, and thorough investigation, and secondly, how to conduct the investigation.  This class will explain the legal consequences of failure to supervise/train and what the public and our agencies expect from supervisors in the criminal justice field.

This course will cover the major topics needed to conduct an investigation such as the complaint process, citizen/employee interviews, investigative techniques, use of force reports, legal requirements, and proper documentation.  This is an engaging course that includes several practical exercises, visual aids, and group discussion throughout the class.

Training will cover:

• Handling and determining the complaint
• Defining and understanding excessive and justifiable use of force
• Understanding de-escalation measures and the impact on the agency
• Legal considerations surrounding the use of force including failure to train and supervise, Brady, and Garrity issues
• Physical evidence collection, preservation, and disposition
• Proper conduct of the investigation
• Employee interviews
• Expectation of truthfulness
• Recorded interviews and written reports/statements
• Case preparation
• Proper documentation of the investigation