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Defensive tactics training for police officers

Learn essential defensive tactics to improve officer safety, control, and de-escalation in high-stress situations.

A program at the Pasco Police Department aims to explore techniques that may be more effective than what is taught at the academy
The level of control needed during this martial art is the same as when responding on a SWAT call
The escort position has been taught at police and corrections academies for many years, but the escort finger lock takedown may be a better option
Significant injuries do not necessarily equate to excessive force, nor do minor injuries necessarily equate to reasonable force
An unedited videotape may never lie, but it is also always partially blind, often totally deaf, and usually too late to the dance
Police said use of the device was justified, in order to stop a fight between two 17-year-old boys
New evidence has come forth in the case of a Seattle officer accused of stomping on a man outside a bar
Overcoming the notion that declaring oneself an Ethical Warrior is somehow ‘uncool’ can be achieved a number of ways — try incorporating this type of scenario training in your DT work
I have a few sayings I teach my students regarding officer safety, and one of them is “let sleeping giants sleep”
Part Two: The most obvious disadvantage to solo-officer “dual force” deployments is that humans just don’t perform multiple tasks well at the same time, especially under stress
Part One: The below article is not intended to advocate for or denounce against “dual force” tactics — only to explore some of the positives and negatives of it
Part three: ‘Good footwork will defeat any attack.’
Veteran trainer Chuck Humes says there’s a three-letter test for a successful tactic: SSS. Is it Simple, is it Sensible, is it Street-proven effective? If so, it just might SYA — Save Your A__!
Don Gulla — a 27-year veteran of the King County (Wash.) Sheriff’s Office — demonstrated numerous drills and exercises that can be used at roll call to help officers defend against an ambush or assassination attempt
The three Cs — complacency, control, and cuffs — can mean the difference between winning or losing during on the street
As much as possible, design and practice techniques that use redundant core skills — keep it simple and keep it effective
Detroit precincts don’t have metal detectors and the front desks are not fitted with Plexiglas-type shields
The protective gear deflected the bullets, and neither officer was injured — something Deputy Commissioner Richard Ross called ‘nothing short of miraculous’
Defensive Tactics FAQs

What are defensive tactics for police officers?

Defensive tactics encompass a range of techniques and strategies that police officers use to protect themselves and others during confrontations. These include control holds, joint locks, takedowns, and de-escalation methods designed to manage resistant or aggressive individuals safely and effectively.

Why is defensive tactics training important for law enforcement?

Defensive tactics training is vital for law enforcement as it prepares officers to handle physical confrontations with confidence and control. Proper training reduces the risk of injury to both officers and suspects, ensures appropriate use of force, and enhances decision-making under stress.

How often should police officers undergo defensive tactics training?

Regular training is essential to maintain proficiency in defensive tactics. While specific requirements vary by department, ongoing practice helps officers retain skills, adapt to evolving threats, and respond effectively in high-pressure situations.

How do defensive tactics impact officer safety and public perception?

Effective defensive tactics enhance officer safety by providing tools to manage confrontations without excessive force. They also positively influence public perception by demonstrating a commitment to professionalism, restraint, and the appropriate use of force in policing.

What techniques are common defensive tactics?

Defensive tactics typically cover a variety of techniques, including: