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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.

The use of straight, side-handle and collapsible batons in modern law enforcement
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Polis Solutions has launched two national surveys funded by the U.S. Department of Justice BJA to help improve defensive tactics training
There is one escape from the headlock that recognizes the danger of the hold
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A woman stabbed the officer and another driver; when she tried to get into another car, the officer shot her
The deputy was assaulted while asking a man to leave the premises of a local business
K-9
The suspect stabbed a K9 while being taken into custody for threatening to stab a woman and several officers
The suspect shot at deputies, attempted to carjack two cars and was pursued through a parking lot
Officers returned fire during the shootout and no one is believed to have been shot
The LEO was shot early Wednesday in an “ambush” attack by a gunman intent on harming or killing police
The suspect resisted arrest, bit multiple officers and pulled a TASER from an officer’s belt
Police say Officer Mark Priebe may not be able to walk again
Two deputies were also injured when a suspect opened fire on deputies conducting an investigation
Deputy Eric McMillian was shot by a man barricaded inside a bedroom
The officer was waiting with a man for an ambulance when the man allegedly stabbed the officer with a kitchen knife
A protester tackled the suspect, who shouted “this is a revolution” and “President Trump must die” before being taken into custody
The suspect stabbed the officer, stole his gun, then shot at two officers responding to the scene
The man grappled with troopers and fractured one of their hands during the struggle
The video of the ambush shows officers being fired on from behind a bathroom door, then grappling with the suspect
Officials say an investigation is ongoing and did not release the officer’s condition
There are systemic problems in policing that we fail to address at our peril
The suspect, who was fatally wounded at the scene, stabbed the officer in the neck and shoulder after throwing a bottle at the officer’s patrol car
The man struck one trooper in the face when the trooper attempted to restrain him
The suspect ran down from his apartment while shooting at police, then continued firing during a vehicle pursuit
Video posted on social media shows a man striking one officer in the face and swinging at another while being asked to leave a basketball court
State and local authorities are searching for three men that were in the vehicle with a man who shot and wound an officer during a vehicle pursuit
The officer was pursuing someone driving erratically when the suspect turned, shot at the officer, then stole a car to flee
Officials say the 25-year-old made 13 threats against the arresting officer after he was taken into custody for shoving the ranger
The suspect fired a rifle at deputies during a vehicle pursuit, then fled into the woods, where he attempted to hide
Deputies fatally shot the man after he pointed and fired a Kel-Tec KSG gun at them following a vehicle pursuit
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: