De-Escalation and non-Escalation as force alternatives

Course Description: Effective communication skills can assist law enforcement in preventing un-necessary 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. If events worsen, students will learn communication skills shown to de-escalate potentially violent encounters. Participants will also learn about the rights of citizens to peace-fully 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.