In June 2020, the Washoe County Sheriff's Office responded to the report of a subject brandishing a weapon. The subject and address were well known to the agency, with a history of violence against law enforcement. The Hostage Negotiations Team used every tactic they knew, and as the hours passed, team members were replaced and negotiations continued. This case study takes place in rural Northern Nevada and contains an emotional rollercoaster. As the incident evolves, members from various specialized teams respond to support HNT during the extended standoff. This incident reminds us that no amount of training can guarantee outcomes in dynamic, high-risk situations. A TEAM is the key to any callout. Without assistance, HNT could not have performed the 16-hour standoff at the level they did. The presentation concludes with key lessons on mental wellness for negotiators and leaders alike.

Retired Lieutenant Andi O'Brien's service began in 1999 as a civilian. After 9/11, her calling moved her to something bigger. In 2003, became a deputy sheriff. Her assignments included detention, crime scene investigator, field training officer, special operations, and the patrol division. In 2018, she was promoted to the rank of Sergeant. In 2023, she was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. Throughout her tenure, one of her ancillary assignments was with the Hostage Negotiations Team, starting as a negotiator. Shortly after her promotion to Sergeant, she transitioned to Team Leader. In 2026, she retired as the Hostage Team Commander. Andi has served on the WSHNA Board since 2012, first as a District Representative and later on the Executive Board. She has coordinated multiple WSHNA Seminars. While with WSHNA, she has attended several NCNA (National Council of Negotiators Association) Meetings. She continues to develop case studies, educational blocks, and training for first responders, negotiators, and the families of first responders. She speaks nationally and internationally at conferences, courses, and agencies. In 2026, she retired from the Washoe County Sheriff's Office as the commander of the Hostage Negotiations Team.