2022 Law Enforcement Operations Conference and Trade Show
Saturday September 24

1400
1800
Attendee Registration
SPECIAL EVENT
THIS COURSE IS OFFERED ON MULTIPLE DAYS


Course Length: 4 hours - Instructor:
Student check-in will occur in the foyer of Exhibit Hall BCD of the Wisconsin Center Saturday, September 24, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Sunday, September 25, from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Sunday September 25

0800
1800
Attendee Registration
SPECIAL EVENT
1 DAYS
THIS COURSE IS OFFERED ON MULTIPLE DAYS


Course Length: 10 hours - Instructor:
Student check-in will occur in the foyer of Exhibit Hall BCD of the Wisconsin Center Saturday, September 24, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Sunday, September 25, from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
0900
1100
Incident Debrief: Hostage Rescue in Kansas City, MO
INCIDENT DEBRIEF


Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Payne, Matthew | Truman, Bryan
This presentation will discuss a hostage rescue incident that occurred in Kansas City, Missouri, on April 10, 2021. The suspect fired shots at his children's mother through the closed door to the bedroom, striking her in the stomach. The suspect then barricaded the door with the two children in the room with him. Kansas City Police Department's tactical team was called in for the standoff. While attempting to negotiate with the suspect, two shots were fired, causing an immediate HRT entry. Officers encountered many obstacles, including the bedroom door being barricaded and taking heavy gunfire from the suspect. Discussion will include how the incident was resolved and lessons learned.
1100
1700
Trade Show
SPECIAL EVENT
THIS COURSE IS OFFERED ON MULTIPLE DAYS


Course Length: 6 hours - Instructor:
Manufacturers and providers of equipment, products, and services used by police, fire, EMS, and other first responders are on hand to demonstrate products, provide information, and answer questions. Products such as apparel, firearms, body armor, rescue vehicles, footwear, technology and robotics, and thousands of other items will be available for viewing and handling.
1230
1430
Incident Debrief: Jonah Lane Hostage Rescue
SEMINAR


Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Dubois, Wayne
This debrief will detail an incident in Benton City, Washington, where an emotionally disturbed convicted felon took his girlfriend hostage. Initially, on-duty SWAT team members from the Tri-City Regional SWAT Team responded to deal with the armed suicidal male, who had his girlfriend inside the residence with him. As they tried to get her to exit, the male, armed with a handgun, refused to let her go. The team implemented various tactics, culminating with a sniper taking a shot of opportunity. The efforts of the CNT element and their immediate passage of critical information were integral in resolving this situation. The presenter will discuss aspects of emotional intelligence relating to this incident.
1500
1630
Incident Debrief: Grand Island Hostage Incident
INCIDENT DEBRIEF


Course Length: 1.5 hours - Instructor: Jones, Nick
NSP SWAT was activated in response to a hostage situation in Grand Island, NE. An escaped prisoner had fled from a local hospital into an assisted living community taking one resident hostage. NSP was requested to relieve local agency. After several hours of negotiation, the hostage attempted to leave and the emergency plan was initiated. Due to a breakdown in communication, an explosive breach was initiated that injured four operators.
1900
2100
Incident Debrief: Downtown LA Hostage Rescue
INCIDENT DEBRIEF


Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Perez, Eduardo | Goosby, Joe | Roca, Eddie | Jackson, Mark
This presentation will discuss a hostage rescue incident that occurred in downtown Los Angeles. A suspect, who was on a shooting rampage, ran into a residential building and took a woman hostage. Upon arrival, SWAT did not know the location of the suspect and hostage, or if they were even together. The team slowly started receiving fragmented intel that the suspect and hostage were possibly in one of the apartments. Once confirmation on the location of both was received and intel that there was an imminent life-threatening situation, the team effected a rescue and secured the hostage.

Monday September 26

0800
1700
Managing Critical Incidents FULL
SEMINAR


Course Length: 8 hours - Instructor: Bigelow, Jonathan
This one-day course is designed to provide law enforcement supervisors and command personnel with the information and tools needed to manage a large-scale critical incident. This course will include a NIMS review, but the focus of the course is providing the tools for supervisors and command personnel to succeed when responding to active threats. The roles and responsibilities of the Incident Commander will be discussed and applied through practical group exercises. Command decision-making through a proven system that streamlines the flow of direction and information will be a central focus of this course.
0830
1000
Opening Ceremony
SPECIAL EVENT


Course Length: 1.5 hours - Instructor:
Opening Ceremonies will be held in Ballroom AB of the Wisconsin Center. This event will include a presentation of colors, the NTOA annual awards ceremony, and Keynote Speaker.
1000
1700
Trade Show
SPECIAL EVENT
THIS COURSE IS OFFERED ON MULTIPLE DAYS


Course Length: 7 hours - Instructor:
Manufacturers and providers of equipment, products, and services used by police, fire, EMS, and other first responders are on hand to demonstrate products, provide information, and answer questions. Products such as apparel, firearms, body armor, rescue vehicles, footwear, technology and robotics, and thousands of other items will be available for viewing and handling.
1030
1200
Incident Debrief: Interstate 80 Hostage Rescue
INCIDENT DEBRIEF


Course Length: 1.5 hours - Instructor: Jones, Nick
NSP SWAT was activated in response to an armed suspect who had taken a victim hostage at gunpoint in Indiana. The suspect drove on Interstate 80 until reaching Nebraska. SWAT utilized a Tactical Vehicle Intervention (TVI) to immobilize the suspect vehicle, rescuing the hostage and taking the suspect into custody. This was the first hostage situation that NSP SWAT had encountered in approximately a decade.
1100
1200
Business Meeting
SPECIAL EVENT


Course Length: 1 hour - Instructor:
This presentation is conducted by the NTOA Board of Directors and provides an annual update on the status of the NTOA. Anyone is welcome to attend.
1230
1430
Legal Update: Tactical Operations Liability: Current Trends, Legal and Policy Considerations FULL
SEMINAR


Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Daigle, Eric
This session will review the applicable standards and case law applicable to the use of a tactical team and tactical related issues. The purpose is to identify the current legal challenges and successes directly related to tactical operations and tactical related equipment. These cases are reviewed for operators and commanders to understand the basis of force decisions and the method of meeting the constitutional requirements of the Fourth Amendment.
1500
1630
Search Warrant Ruse: 4th Amendment Considerations
INCIDENT DEBRIEF


Course Length: 1.5 hours - Instructor: Thomas, Matthew
This de-brief will discuss a case involving the service of a search warrant for a child pornography suspect. The SWAT Team planned the high-risk warrant service at a house owned by the suspect's parents. The parent was a self-proclaimed gang member (OMG) and had frequent contact with law enforcement. To create a less volatile situation, the SWAT Team used a ruse to get the owner away from the residence when SWAT executed the warrant. The mission went according to plan but ultimately resulted in a civil suit for 4th amendment violations. This de-brief will discuss the planning, reasoning, and phases, as well as the execution of the plan. It will finish with the civil suit claims and discussion on 4th amendment implications resulting from the overall operation.
1830
2130
Welcome Reception
SPECIAL EVENT


Course Length: 3 hours - Instructor:
The Welcome Reception consisting of a live band, dinner, and drinks, will be Monday evening, September 26, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Harley-Davidson Museum. All conference attendees, vendors, and instructors are invited for a night of relaxation and socializing. Point Blank Enterprises and Lenco Armored Vehicles are generously sponsoring this event with the NTOA. The Museum is located at 400 W Canal St. Milwaukee, WI 53201, about a half mile from the Hilton. Transportation will be provided. Buses will depart from the N. 6th Street side of the Hilton starting at 6:15 pm and will continue to run a loop. The last pick up from the museum will be at 9:30 pm.

Tuesday September 27

0800
0945
Coordinated Response to Excited Delirium Incidents
SEMINAR


Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Farris, Fred
This seminar will provide a historical perspective on excited delirium and the importance of having a planned and well-coordinated response to highly volatile events. The importance of recognizing medical crisis quickly is key to reducing the risk of in-custody death. Training in recognition and the coordinated response from all stake holders is the basis for this class which is designed for sworn and non-sworn law enforcement personnel including call takers and dispatchers, fire and EMS personnel, and legal advisors.
0800
0945
Dog Days of Summer: TEMS Lessons Learned During Civil Unrest During a Pandemic in Austin, 2020
SEMINAR
THIS COURSE IS OFFERED ON MULTIPLE DAYS


Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Pickett, Jason
This will be an overview and case study of EMS response challenges during civil unrest operations in Austin during the summer of 2020. Large, moving, and sometimes hostile crowds, the variety of illnesses and injuries and multiple casualty incidents, interface with other public safety units as well as ad-hoc civilian medical organizations complicated preparedness in ways not often faced with other mass gathering events. Prolonged operational medical support unmasked challenges of maintaining force health protection at a time when COVID cases in Austin were skyrocketing.
0800
0945
Taking a Public Health Approach to Improve Law Enforcement and Mental Health Outcomes: Lessons Learned from Veteran Suicide Prevention
SEMINAR
THIS COURSE IS OFFERED ON MULTIPLE DAYS


Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Kalvels, Stacie
Suicide is a significant public health problem and eliminating Veteran suicide is a top VA priority in which we continue to work diligently across the Department and with federal, tribal, state, and local governments to advance a public health approach to suicide prevention. The Veterans' Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States, providing services at 1,293 sites of care, including 171 VA Medical Centers (VAMC) and 1,112 outpatient sites of care of varying complexity to over 9 million Veterans enrolled in VA health care. The VA also has its own police force, the VA Police, which is a uniformed law enforcement service that is responsible for the protection the VAMCs, the outpatient sites and Community Based Outpatient Clinics. Veteran suicide rates significantly decreased in 2019 (2021 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report). However, the suicide rate among Veterans was 52% higher than non-Veteran adults in the U.S. Many military Veterans are employed by law enforcement agencies as many of the skills Veterans have make them ideal candidates for law enforcement positions. There are many initiatives that target Veterans who are in high-risk population to include law enforcement officers. Additionally, many law enforcement officers who are military Veterans are at higher risk due to multiple identities including gender, race and ethnicity and other factors including medical conditions, financial status, marital and relationship problems and substance abuse. Everyone has a role in suicide prevention. It starts with focusing primarily on officer mental health and well-being and encouragement to seek out and receive help. Through this focus, we can also improve outcomes in law enforcement response to mental health crises.
Learning Objectives: Participants will understand what the VA is currently doing to identify suicide prevention as a public health crisis and eliminating suicide among Veterans. Participants will learn how many of the skills Veterans have make them ideal candidates for law enforcement positions and how they can help improve outcomes among their officers. Participants will understand how breaking the silence and stigma and improving their trainings can improve outcomes when responding to mental health crises.
0800
1200
Incident Debrief: Borderline Bar and Grill Mass Shooting
INCIDENT DEBRIEF


Course Length: 4 hours - Instructor: Chips, Ronald
On Nov. 7, 2018, a suspect entered the Borderline Bar and Grill in Thousand Oaks, California, where 259 patrons and employees were enjoying the evening. The suspect then began a horrendous mass shooting incident that ended with the senseless murder of 12 people, including Sgt. Ron Helus of the Ventura County Sheriff's Office. Sgt. Helus was ambushed and shot by the suspect while he and other first responders attempted entry into the building. Unfortunately, during the chaotic and fast-moving events, Sgt. Helus was also struck by "friendly fire."
0800
1200
Legal Update: Use of Force
SEMINAR


Course Length: 4 hours - Instructor: Daigle, Eric
Attorney Daigle will discuss the history and reasoning behind the decision to remove the continuum from the police use of force policies a decade ago and why it is unacceptable to revive it in present-day policing. Law enforcement has worked for almost two decades to remove the stair-stepping methodology of the use of force continuum, due to its continued failure to represent the methodology of current case law accurately. During this webinar, you will obtain a better understanding of why an image does not represent the current established case law and the constitutional standards that we have in this Country.
0800
1200
The Seven Cs of Organizational Change - Leading with Change and Trust in Public Service
SEMINAR


Course Length: 4 hours - Instructor: Young, Bill
Change is inevitable and reliance on the status quo in public service is shortsighted. Overwhelmingly, top performing public servants need to bring about impactful change for the agencies and communities they serve. However, the way to effect positive change is largely misunderstood, mismanaged, and routinely falters. Facilitating lasting and impactful change requires a proper mindset, a solid process to follow through to completion, and high levels of trust among all stakeholders. This four-hour course not only explains how to build high levels of trust, but also its relationship to positive change. It ultimately presents a simple but comprehensive system for bringing about lasting, impactful change in teams, agencies and communities. The learning objectives include: Identifying multiple methods of building trust through the practices of extreme accountability, transparency and legitimacy; Defining the foundations of trust and credibility in public service: Character and Competence; Understanding the core leadership behaviors that either enhance or derail trust in your role as a public servant; Describing the "Waves of Trust": How it relates to high performing teams, agencies and the communities they serve; Learning how Emotional Intelligence and Bias affect your decision-making; Learning how the speed of high-trust organizations can save lives, time and money; Identifying the intrinsic motivators that build trust and lead to efficient and progressive change; Applying the Seven Cs of Change technique to facilitate a change concept within your agency or team. The seven steps include: 1) Conceptualize, 2) Communicate, 3) Collaborate, 4) Create, 5) Coordinate, 6) Commit, 7) Celebrate.
0800
1700
Building Resilience: A Tactical Guide for Developing a Firm Foundation for Mind, Body, and Spirit
SEMINAR


Course Length: 8 hours - Instructor: Dietzman, Brenda
We are resilient people. We are the ones others call when their world is falling apart. However, over the years, we are subjected to trauma and adversity on an almost daily basis and it can be mentally, emotionally and physically damaging. We can continue to rely on our current level of resilience or we can choose to actively develop it. In this presentation, we will learn about pre-traumatic growth and how to develop specific resources and tools that help make us become more resilient. Then, when in trauma, learning how to intentionally use those resources to help us cope. Then finally, we will discuss post traumatic growth and learn the steps that need to be taken after the event so it can make us healthier, wiser, and more resilient. The goal is to help us all learn how to prepare for, cope with, and grow through adversity so we can leave our careers (someday) healthier than we were on our first day.
0800
1700
Duty Knife as a Backup Weapon (Use and Deployment for LE)
SEMINAR


Course Length: 8 hours - Instructor: Lake, Ernie
Most law enforcement officers, especially those on tactical teams, carry at least one knife on their person when on duty. In addition to the variety of utility functions a duty knife can perform, most officers carry a knife with intent to use it as a last-ditch survival weapon or weapon retention tool. Unlike other weapons officers carry, many agencies do not have a policy regarding knives. Consequently, the carry, deployment and defensive use of a knife is rarely trained.

  • All participants should bring their duty belt with a Blue Training Gun (NO live firearms or ammunition).
  • 0800
    1700
    Tactical Mission Planning and Briefing FULL
    SEMINAR
    2 DAYS


    Course Length: 16 hours - Instructor: Jahnke, Jason
    This course is designed to expose police personnel (supervisors, tactical and task force team leaders, detectives, etc.) to procedures used for tactical mission planning and briefing of involved personnel. Topics include mission planning; documentation; operational planning for high-risk search warrants; scouting procedures for mission planning; primary, alternate, contingency, and emergency planning; suggestions on how to modify high-risk search warrant planning to other types of tactical missions (open area operations, barricaded subjects, arrest warrant/fugitive apprehension, and hostage barricade situations); and much more. Ensuring that a comprehensive but efficient briefing system is in place will be a course outcome. NOTE: This course is not a scouting course, we will make assumptions that the scout has been completed and has provided you the information needed to develop a tactical plan. This course is not a tactics course. We will dictate various tactics to use on some missions to demonstrate the flexibility of the briefing process.

    This 2-day offering is the standard NTOA Tactical Mission Planning and Briefing course. Attendees must attend both days. Registration is limited to 32 students.
    0800
    1700
    Tactical Vision - SWAT Edition FULL
    SEMINAR


    Course Length: 8 hours - Instructor: Bartlett, Derrick
    Most police officers do not realize they are essentially blind. They believe the myth of being trained observers, when the reality is they see only a small percentage of the world around them at any given time. They also see it slower and with much less accuracy than they would be comfortable knowing. All of this compromises their effectiveness and their safety as SWAT officers.

    Tactical Vision is a course like no other. It will systematically explain how the visual systems work, examining and explaining their capabilities and limitations. It will show students how this affects their training and mission readiness. And finally, it will show them how to train the most important component of their physical skills, their eyes. This is a class that literally has to be seen to be believed.

    Registration is limited to 50 students.
    1000
    1200
    Developing Tactical Rope Standards and Options for Law Enforcement
    SEMINAR


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Cartaya, Eduardo
    This seminar covers the growing effort to establish law enforcement-specific standards in training and qualification for tactical rope operations, like IRATA/SPRAT offers for commercial rope access. Establishing a global standard, that integrates advanced techniques from the cave rescue and arborist industries with tactical operations, will vastly expand critical incident options for commanders. This seminar opens with current vertical challenges facing law enforcement , the hybrid solutions that are being developed to deal with them, and then discusses the qualification programs emerging to give the tactical rope industry its own identity and standards. Like other specialized law enforcement techniques, the vertical option is for experts only. Tactical rope mobility is a contingency skillset, similar to bomb squad, crisis negotiator, K9, etc. If you don't train and maintain a vertical option, it cannot be considered a potential or viable solution. Tactical rope demands have evolved from simple police rappelling - one-way rope travel taught through traditional rappel master and confidence training - to complex rope access, rescue, and vertical intervention challenges that are reactive to suspect responses mid-operation. To be a truly useful tool, a vertical operator needs to possess unconscious competence and fluency in vertical mobility, common with cave rescue and arborist technicians. These hybrid technical solutions give operators access and extrication options seldom before thought possible. To achieve this, there must be a more holistic industry-specific standard and scaffolded certification program that is recognized between agencies. The tactical rope operations industry is relatively orphaned. It has no overall standards, playbook, advanced training curriculum, or dedicated equipment. Most courses and vertical gear are "borrowed" from fire (NFPA), mountain rescue (MRA), guide services (AMGA), or military basic training, which has no standard of depth in any branch of service. This practice of adopting training and equipment from other industries for law enforcement operators is risky because other disciplines don't consider the relevant tactical context. New standards and courses are evolving to approach vertical rope mobility from a law-enforcement perspective, and include critical life-saving techniques such as: use of force, integrating entry kit with vertical kit, post entry mobility, NVD / mask operations, interventions with non-compliant subjects, and other tactical-specific challenges and needs.
    1000
    1200
    Top 20 Tactical Concepts: 1-5
    SEMINAR


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Pearson, David
    This course is broken up into four (4) separate presentations. Attendees may attend any number of the presentations. Different concepts included in the Top 20 will be covered in each session.

    The Top 20 is an in-depth look at concepts that are foundational to the mindset, philosophy, and tactical considerations of today's law enforcement officers. These concepts are essential to daily and critical decision-making and are applicable to officers, supervisors, and managers in patrol and special operations and can be used to navigate all critical incidents including suicidal calls and crowd management events.

    Regardless of previous experience, participants should come away with a better appreciation of concepts such as: Balanced Officers (warrior v guardian), the Soft Skills, De-escalation, OODA loop, Tactical Decision Making, the Safety Priorities, Officer Jeopardy, Opportunity, the 4 C's, Space and Time, Tactical Pause, and Scenario Based Integrated Training, to name a few. This appreciation and understanding can help attendees become more balanced, improve their leadership skills, and make better informed, consistent, and defensible decisions in daily operations and critical incidents by utilizing a 5-step decision-making model.

    A specific discussion will deal with ways to approach suicidal calls by applying many of the concepts discussed during all four segments. The concepts will be delivered using incident and video debriefs.
    1300
    1445
    Dog Days of Summer: TEMS Lessons Learned During Civil Unrest During a Pandemic in Austin, 2020
    SEMINAR
    THIS COURSE IS OFFERED ON MULTIPLE DAYS


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Pickett, Jason
    This will be an overview and case study of EMS response challenges during civil unrest operations in Austin during the summer of 2020. Large, moving, and sometimes hostile crowds, the variety of illnesses and injuries and multiple casualty incidents, interface with other public safety units as well as ad-hoc civilian medical organizations complicated preparedness in ways not often faced with other mass gathering events. Prolonged operational medical support unmasked challenges of maintaining force health protection at a time when COVID cases in Austin were skyrocketing.
    1300
    1445
    Incident Debrief: Hostage Incident with Team Transition, Orlando, FL
    INCIDENT DEBRIEF


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Eklund, Chris
    This debrief will discuss lessons learned and challenges faced during a hostage incident that occurred in Orlando, Florida in 2018. An officer was shot during the initial response, and the suspect then barricaded with four children held as hostage. Over 20 hours, the Orlando Police Department SWAT Team and Orange County Sheriff's Office SWAT Team attempted to resolve the incident. Tactical, operational and administrative considerations will be discussed, as will the transition of teams. In addition, expectations and realities of law enforcement during critical incidents will be a focal point of this presentation.
    1300
    1445
    Taking a Public Health Approach to Improve Law Enforcement and Mental Health Outcomes: Lessons Learned from Veteran Suicide Prevention
    SEMINAR
    THIS COURSE IS OFFERED ON MULTIPLE DAYS


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Kalvels, Stacie
    Suicide is a significant public health problem and eliminating Veteran suicide is a top VA priority in which we continue to work diligently across the Department and with federal, tribal, state, and local governments to advance a public health approach to suicide prevention. The Veterans' Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States, providing services at 1,293 sites of care, including 171 VA Medical Centers (VAMC) and 1,112 outpatient sites of care of varying complexity to over 9 million Veterans enrolled in VA health care. The VA also has its own police force, the VA Police, which is a uniformed law enforcement service that is responsible for the protection the VAMCs, the outpatient sites and Community Based Outpatient Clinics. Veteran suicide rates significantly decreased in 2019 (2021 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report). However, the suicide rate among Veterans was 52% higher than non-Veteran adults in the U.S. Many military Veterans are employed by law enforcement agencies as many of the skills Veterans have make them ideal candidates for law enforcement positions. There are many initiatives that target Veterans who are in high-risk population to include law enforcement officers. Additionally, many law enforcement officers who are military Veterans are at higher risk due to multiple identities including gender, race and ethnicity and other factors including medical conditions, financial status, marital and relationship problems and substance abuse. Everyone has a role in suicide prevention. It starts with focusing primarily on officer mental health and well-being and encouragement to seek out and receive help. Through this focus, we can also improve outcomes in law enforcement response to mental health crises.
    Learning Objectives: Participants will understand what the VA is currently doing to identify suicide prevention as a public health crisis and eliminating suicide among Veterans. Participants will learn how many of the skills Veterans have make them ideal candidates for law enforcement positions and how they can help improve outcomes among their officers. Participants will understand how breaking the silence and stigma and improving their trainings can improve outcomes when responding to mental health crises.
    1300
    1445
    Understanding and Explaining Response to Critical Incidents
    SEMINAR


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Farris, Fred
    More than ever, a law enforcement supervisor, administrator ,or executive must have the ability to explain police action and law enforcement's response to incidents. Having the ability to think critically and use best practices, case law, and sound understanding of force actions is crucial to explaining those actions. This presentation will provide much needed information and considerations for anyone who may have to articulate the actions taken by law enforcement officers.
    1300
    1700
    Barricaded Suspects and Hostage Rescue Analysis
    SEMINAR
    THIS COURSE IS OFFERED ON MULTIPLE DAYS


    Course Length: 4 hours - Instructor: Perez, Eduardo
    This presentation will discuss tactical concepts used in barricaded suspects and hostage rescue operations. LAPD SWAT personnel will discuss tactical concepts and challenges, risk analysis, command and control, and more, using incident debriefs involving the Los Angeles Police Department SWAT Team to facilitate discussion.
    1300
    1700
    Command and Control Leadership and Decision-Making: A Review of a Fatal OIS Ambush in 2020
    SEMINAR
    THIS COURSE IS OFFERED ON MULTIPLE DAYS


    Course Length: 4 hours - Instructor: Flippo, Daniel
    On June 6th, 2020, Air Force Sergeant Steven Carillo ambushed multiple Sheriff's Deputies investigating a suspicious abandoned vehicle. The suspect assaulted deputies with a high volume of gunfire from a concealed and elevated position. The suspect attacked other deputies, California Highway Patrol Officers, and an ambulance crew with gunfire and pipe bombs. Killed within moments of the ambush was Sgt. Damon Gutzwiller. Estimates indicate over 200 officers responded to the scene, including seven SWAT teams and multiple bomb squads. This presentation will examine the leadership challenges and decisions within the first few minutes and the next 24 hours of the event. A review of the incident will help the attendees identify predictable problems when a multijurisdictional response to an event like this occurs. A review of this event will also identify key leadership roles and actions that must be accomplished to reduce the chaos and achieve a focus of effort for personnel on the scene.
    1300
    1700
    Post-Traumatic Stress in the Special Operations Community
    SEMINAR
    THIS COURSE IS OFFERED ON MULTIPLE DAYS


    Course Length: 4 hours - Instructor: Gribble, Travis
    This presentation will provide an overview of Sgt. Travis Gribble's real-world experience dealing with Post-Traumatic Stress while assigned to patrol and SWAT. His therapist, Jennifer Cooper, will describe her time treating Sgt. Gribble, including lessons learned and roadmaps for officers to achieve full-length healthy careers.
    1300
    1700
    The Articulation of the Use of Deadly Force
    SEMINAR


    Course Length: 4 hours - Instructor: Robles, Luis
    Long after you have survived the gunfight, it will come back to life. This time, the shooting incident will rise from the ashes within the walls of internal affairs, a use-of-force review board or a courthouse. So how do you prepare for this contingency? Becoming fluent in the language of special weapons and tactics is a good start. Often, a lawyer who understands use of force can point out specific areas you should address. Attorney Luis Robles will provide insight into the use of tools like the OODA Loop and how it can strip the officer/suspect encounter to its barest essentials. Aside from the practical application of the OODA Loop (observe, orient, decide and act) to your day-to-day work, the OODA Loop readily creates a structure which an officer can use to explain any incident, especially a critical incident such as an officer-involved shooting.
    1500
    1700
    Incident Debrief: SWAT Considerations for Responding to a Radiological Threat
    INCIDENT DEBRIEF


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Jahnke, Jason | Clement, Jeffrey
    This incident debrief will delve into the rare instance of law enforcement facing an unusual threat; radiological material. The Phoenix Police Department faced a scenario in which an employee at an industrial e-ray facility allegedly stole radiological material. The police department contacted the suspect at his apartment, and a stand-off ensued. This presentation will discuss SWAT considerations, challenges, and response options for such an incident.
    1500
    1700
    Instructor Development for Active Shooter Training
    SEMINAR
    THIS COURSE IS OFFERED ON MULTIPLE DAYS


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Ellis, Eric
    This instructor development course will review current trends in active shooter incidents nationwide and discuss the lessons learned and how they should shape our training moving forward. A review of active shooter protocol will be conducted and adjustments for these policies based on the trends will be discussed. This includes TCCC and its integration into training, along with the Rescue Task Force model. Scenario development will be discussed in detail to allow instructors to better teach and challenge their officers. This course is designed for officers who have previously been involved with active shooter instruction at their departments.
    1500
    1700
    Top 20 Tactical Concepts: 6-10
    SEMINAR


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Pearson, David
    This course is broken up into four (4) separate presentations. Attendees may attend any number of the presentations. Different concepts included in the Top 20 will be covered in each session.

    The Top 20 is an in-depth look at concepts that are foundational to the mindset, philosophy, and tactical considerations of today’s law enforcement officers. These concepts are essential to daily and critical decision-making and are applicable to officers, supervisors, and managers in patrol and special operations and can be used to navigate all critical incidents including suicidal calls and crowd management events.

    Regardless of previous experience, participants should come away with a better appreciation of concepts such as: Balanced Officers (warrior v guardian), the Soft Skills, De-escalation, OODA loop, Tactical Decision Making, the Safety Priorities, Officer Jeopardy, Opportunity, the 4 C’s, Space and Time, Tactical Pause, and Scenario Based Integrated Training, to name a few. This appreciation and understanding can help attendees become more balanced, improve their leadership skills, and make better informed, consistent, and defensible decisions in daily operations and critical incidents by utilizing a 5-step decision-making model.

    A specific discussion will deal with ways to approach suicidal calls by applying many of the concepts discussed during all four segments. The concepts will be delivered using incident and video debriefs.

    Wednesday September 28

    0800
    0945
    Building a Patrol CQB Program
    SEMINAR
    THIS COURSE IS OFFERED ON MULTIPLE DAYS


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Ellis, Eric
    This presentation is designed to familiarize instructors who are interested in building a Patrol CQB program at their organization. Instruction will include how to present the need for this type of training to the administration for approval, and how to structure a progressive training program for officers. It will break down selection of CQB protocol and discuss phasing it into various learning stages via a stair-stepped progression. This will ensure safer patrol personnel and better SWAT candidates for organizations.
    0800
    1200
    Body-Worn Cameras
    SEMINAR


    Course Length: 4 hours - Instructor: Robles, Luis
    Videos created by body-worn cameras (BWC) may create accurate evidence, but do these videos tell the truth? Despite the public outcry for body-worn cameras for all law enforcement agencies, there are limitations, drawbacks and a great many unknowns that accompany the benefits. To understand the value of BWC videos, you must learn about human psychology, the art and science of filmmaking, and human factors analysis. This class will address those topics and more. Using many examples from police BWC videos, the class will explain why sometimes BWC video is the best evidence, sometimes it is the worst, but usually it is somewhere in between.
    0800
    1200
    Breaking Down the NTOA's Position Paper on No-Knock Warrants
    SEMINAR


    Course Length: 4 hours - Instructor: Eells, Thor
    The NTOA recently published a position paper on no-knock warrants. This paper has led to some questions and misunderstanding of why the NTOA took a position and highlighted a need for more tactical training on implementing knock and announce warrants in a tactically sound manner. This issue is much broader than SWAT and involves other units that may regularly serve no-knock warrants. Discussion topics will include the background and history of no-knock warrants, why the NTOA published a position, tactical options for knock and announce warrants, factual information on tactical operations across the country, legal issues, life-safety principles, and nationwide trends. The presentation will answer the most common questions and concerns.
    0800
    1200
    Officer Involved Shootings: New Methods and Mandates for Investigations:
    SEMINAR


    Course Length: 4 hours - Instructor: Daigle, Eric
    Over the last several years law enforcement has seen additional mandates placed on the investigations of officer involved shootings. Understanding and implementing legal requirements and industry standards is critical to maintaining the public trust, as well as protecting officers involved in critical incidents. This presentation will enhance your understanding of new mandates and methods of investigation and factors that must be considered. Challenges faced by agencies, legal updates, and methods of putting the agency and officer in a more defensible position will be discussed in depth.
    0800
    1200
    Police Sniper Training and Operations Manual: An In-Depth Look at the 2nd Edition
    SEMINAR


    Course Length: 4 hours - Instructor: Lang, Mark
    The American Sniper Association released the 2nd Edition of the Police Sniper Training and Operations Manual in April of 2022. This comprehensive manual is a must for every police sniper team assigned to a SWAT team. This presentation will examine key sections in the manual elaborating on and highlighting areas where there has been inertia in the past. This presentation is relevant for Police Snipers, Sniper Team Leaders, Sniper Supervisors and SWAT Commanders.
    0800
    1200
    Post-Traumatic Stress in the Special Operations Community
    SEMINAR
    THIS COURSE IS OFFERED ON MULTIPLE DAYS


    Course Length: 4 hours - Instructor: Gribble, Travis
    This presentation will provide an overview of Sgt. Travis Gribble’s real-world experience dealing with Post-Traumatic Stress while assigned to patrol and SWAT. His therapist, Jennifer Cooper, will describe her time treating Sgt. Gribble, including lessons learned and roadmaps for officers to achieve full-length healthy careers.
    0800
    1200
    Tactical Team Leader Considerations and Leadership Part 1
    SEMINAR
    THIS COURSE IS OFFERED ON MULTIPLE DAYS


    Course Length: 4 hours - Instructor: Murphy, Dan
    This presentation will focus on the role and responsibilities of a Team Leader in today's environment. Topics including leadership, current trends and concerns, decision-making, and operational philosophy will be discussed in depth.
    0800
    1700
    Enhancing and Sustaining Physical, Physiological and Cognitive Performance for the Tactical Operator
    SEMINAR


    Course Length: 8 hours - Instructor: Mulugeta, Lealem
    Medalist Performance developed the Advanced Tactical Athlete Strength & Conditioning (A-TASC) curriculum to help tactical professionals achieve exceptional physical, physiological and mental performance to successfully meet the extreme demands of their duties. Each participant's peak performance development program was designed with a keen consideration to the participant’s needs in physiologic performance development, anatomical and body composition attributes, biomechanical optimization, nutrition coaching, injury recovery and prevention, and mental performance coaching.

    The course will begin with a lecture to provide insights on the A-TASC curriculum. The primary focus of the lecture is to provide a scientific and practical understanding of: How to structure your tactical conditioning protocol (i.e., pre, during, and post-workout) to enhance physical, physiological and cognitive performance; Why the pre- and post-workout elements are essential to performance, injury prevention and recovery; how the methods can enhance not just general physical, physiological and mental performance, but also marksmanship proficiency; and simple nutrition considerations that can mitigate systemic physiological states that can be adverse to the operator's health and performance.

    Following the lecture portion, students will engage in a hands-on session to learn simple but highly effective methods to recover from and prevent common injuries experienced by tactical personnel, optimize training recovery to promote predictable and sustainable performance development, and while minimizing injuries, and improve flexibility and mobility to accommodate a wide range of performance envelope and improve overall quality of life.
    1000
    1200
    Incident Debrief: Dolton Hostage Rescue
    INCIDENT DEBRIEF


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Tencza, Brian
    This presentation debriefs a hostage rescue incident that took place at an insurance agency in Dolton, Illinois, in which an armed subject held a female worker hostage. Multiple external factors that contributed to the chaos of the violent incident, including large crowds, a busy roadway area, and limited areas for containment, react and assault, will be discussed.
    1000
    1200
    Organization and Maintenance of Tactical Medical (TACMED) Operations
    SEMINAR
    THIS COURSE IS OFFERED ON MULTIPLE DAYS


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Heath, Donald
    This presentation discusses options for Tactical Medical (TACMED) operations to support a vast array of tactical operations teams, starting with initial requirements through maintaining a seasoned TACMED element. Instruction will illustrate and contrast progress made from the inception of the first SWAT medic at Lake County Sheriff's Office in 1995 to present.
    1000
    1200
    Top 20 Tactical Concepts: 11-15
    SEMINAR


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Pearson, David
    This course is broken up into four (4) separate presentations. Attendees may attend any number of the presentations. Different concepts included in the Top 20 will be covered in each session.

    The Top 20 is an in-depth look at concepts that are foundational to the mindset, philosophy, and tactical considerations of today’s law enforcement officers. These concepts are essential to daily and critical decision-making and are applicable to officers, supervisors, and managers in patrol and special operations and can be used to navigate all critical incidents including suicidal calls and crowd management events.

    Regardless of previous experience, participants should come away with a better appreciation of concepts such as: Balanced Officers (warrior v guardian), the Soft Skills, De-escalation, OODA loop, Tactical Decision Making, the Safety Priorities, Officer Jeopardy, Opportunity, the 4 C’s, Space and Time, Tactical Pause, and Scenario Based Integrated Training, to name a few. This appreciation and understanding can help attendees become more balanced, improve their leadership skills, and make better informed, consistent, and defensible decisions in daily operations and critical incidents by utilizing a 5-step decision-making model.

    A specific discussion will deal with ways to approach suicidal calls by applying many of the concepts discussed during all four segments. The concepts will be delivered using incident and video debriefs.
    1300
    1445
    Incident Debrief: Barricaded Homicide Suspect
    INCIDENT DEBRIEF


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Siebenborn, Andrew
    On Oct. 28, 2021, the Sioux Falls Police Department responded to an area hospital for three individuals, a 6-year-old child, a mother and a grandfather, who were stabbed and had life-threatening injuries. The child had suffered multiple stab wounds and a slit to the throat. Officers on scene ascertained that the suspect was the father of the 6-year-old. SWAT and negotiators arrived at the location where the suspect was located and discovered he was armed with a large hunting knife and refused to exit the residence. Due to the severity of the incident, SWAT was detailed to the scene to take over the incident. Throughout the course of the incident several situations were dealt with including a cut gas line to the home and an odor of natural gas outside the home and in the surrounding area. Concerned for the safety of law enforcement/fire personnel as well as neighbors, it was important to clear the structure as quickly as possible. This debrief will discuss the tactics used to resolve this incident, including use of multiple 40mm BIP rounds and a K9.
    1300
    1445
    Incident Debriefing as a Path to Professionalism
    SEMINAR


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Ellis, Eric
    This course will familiarize attendees with a structured debrief protocol as demonstrated by the overview of an officer-involved shooting and manhunt. On Oct. 14, 2014, McHenry County Sheriff's deputies were called to a residence in Holiday Hills for a check for well-being call in regards to a suicidal subject. On arrival, deputies were ambushed by the subject with rifle fire. Follow-up on the shortcomings noted in this response and implementation of those lessons learned will be reviewed so that other agencies can use a similar pattern of learning to guide the development of their teams. This presentation will also demonstrate a structured path to take a SWAT team from a "Tactical Team" to a "Tier 1" team, as designated by the NTOA's Tactical Response and Operations Standard.
    1300
    1445
    Optics Insight and Evaluation
    SEMINAR


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Beckstrand, Tom
    This seminar teaches the law enforcement sniper how to evaluate and select optics for duty use. The details covered will also help the sniper articulate to his command the reasons why premium optics are essential. The evaluation and selection steps covered include scopes features necessary for duty use, reticle selection, mounting considerations, tracking and reticle cant tests, and scope set-up tricks that eliminate common problems for the precision rifleman.
    1300
    1445
    The SWAT Drone: Maximizing its Capabilities Before Manned Entry
    SEMINAR
    THIS COURSE IS OFFERED ON MULTIPLE DAYS


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Lang, Mark
    This presentation will highlight de-escalation tactics that may be employed at a tactical incident through the introduction of a drone to enhance the effectiveness of crisis negotiations, intelligence gathering & officer safety. This presentation is ideal for SWAT Commanders, Team Leaders, Assistant Team Leader and Crisis Negotiators.
    1300
    1700
    Dare to be Great: Leadership Strategies for Tactical Officers
    SEMINAR


    Course Length: 4 hours - Instructor: Willis, Brian
    It is easy to get caught up in the negativity of today's media and the rhetoric from the small, but very vocal special interest groups who would like people to believe the lie that all cops are thugs, racists and murderers. You have a choice however, you can:

    a) Embrace the Suck, Find the Good and Dare to be Great, or

    b) Allow the suck to embrace you and become one of the whining, sniveling malcontents you always complain about.

    As a tactical officer you are a role model to others in your agency, your community and the law enforcement profession so it is critical that you choose to Embrace the Suck and Dare to Be Great.

    Dare to Be Great is a philosophy focused on growing the courage to embrace excellence, punch mediocrity in the mouth, say no to the status quo and strive for greatness in your life, your training and your agency. Greatness is a choice you have to make every day and a life long journey. This seminar will give you tools and strategies to help you on that journey as well as challenge you to think differently about greatness and what it means to Dare to Be Great.


    1300
    1700
    Tactical Team Leader Considerations and Leadership Part 2
    SEMINAR
    THIS COURSE IS OFFERED ON MULTIPLE DAYS


    Course Length: 4 hours - Instructor: Murphy, Dan
    This presentation will continue from the mornings session, but will focus on a review of tactical considerations related to barricade operations, high-risk warrant service, and hostage situations. Multiple incidents will be discussed and utilized in emphasizing the learning points.
    1500
    1700
    Behavior Based CQB/Room Entry
    SEMINAR
    THIS COURSE IS OFFERED ON MULTIPLE DAYS


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Thrasher, Trevor
    Behavior Based CQB will introduce the concepts involving how humans perform under high duress CQB situations, which is often extremely disconnected due to behavioral non-compliance from what is often taught and trained. The four critical tests of any tactic or skill will be discussed in relation to CQB/SWAT training and operations. Attendees will also learn the role of the three brains or "Triune Brain" when under threat and how to mitigate performance limitations of humans experiencing fight or flight activation as related to CQB. There will be numerous videos of real-world incidents to demonstrate the concepts.
    1500
    1700
    Incident Debrief: Officer Down Hostage Situation
    INCIDENT DEBRIEF


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Drucker, Harry
    This presentation will provide the details behind a critical incident in which officers were shot and hostages were taken in the Los Angeles area. The presenter will review the challenges faced and lessons learned in this unique critical incident.
    1500
    1700
    Top 20 Tactical Concepts: 16-20
    SEMINAR


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Pearson, David
    This course is broken up into four (4) separate presentations. Attendees may attend any number of the presentations. Different concepts included in the Top 20 will be covered in each session.

    The Top 20 is an in-depth look at concepts that are foundational to the mindset, philosophy, and tactical considerations of today’s law enforcement officers. These concepts are essential to daily and critical decision-making and are applicable to officers, supervisors, and managers in patrol and special operations and can be used to navigate all critical incidents including suicidal calls and crowd management events.

    Regardless of previous experience, participants should come away with a better appreciation of concepts such as: Balanced Officers (warrior v guardian), the Soft Skills, De-escalation, OODA loop, Tactical Decision Making, the Safety Priorities, Officer Jeopardy, Opportunity, the 4 C’s, Space and Time, Tactical Pause, and Scenario Based Integrated Training, to name a few. This appreciation and understanding can help attendees become more balanced, improve their leadership skills, and make better informed, consistent, and defensible decisions in daily operations and critical incidents by utilizing a 5-step decision-making model.

    A specific discussion will deal with ways to approach suicidal calls by applying many of the concepts discussed during all four segments. The concepts will be delivered using incident and video debriefs.

    Thursday September 29

    0800
    0945
    Instructor Development for Active Shooter Training
    SEMINAR
    THIS COURSE IS OFFERED ON MULTIPLE DAYS


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Ellis, Eric
    This instructor development course will review current trends in active shooter incidents nationwide and discuss the lessons learned and how they should shape our training moving forward. A review of active shooter protocol will be conducted and adjustments for these policies based on the trends will be discussed. This includes TCCC and its integration into training, along with the Rescue Task Force model. Scenario development will be discussed in detail to allow instructors to better teach and challenge their officers. This course is designed for officers who have previously been involved with active shooter instruction at their departments.
    0800
    0945
    Recovery in Our Ranks
    SEMINAR
    THIS COURSE IS OFFERED ON MULTIPLE DAYS


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Wistocki, Richard
    In the advent of first responder mental health including PTSS, gambling, alcoholism and drug abuse, we are losing more first responders than ever before. This is mostly due to the trauma they experience while in performance of their duties. The "Recovery in Our Ranks" training is a hands-on experience for all persons connected to the first responder community. This training focuses on what to look for when an employee is struggling with these issues and how to get them help at the exact moment they say "OK, I need help now." The attendee will learn how to get their employee the help they need instead of ostracizing them from their organization. This training program will give an insider look at treatment modules a first responder will go through when struggling with their trauma and/or addictions. The attendee will examine all of the modules of the Haven for Our Heroes Program. This experience will go from arrival, to detox, PHP, aftercare, FMLA standards, Adventure Therapy, EMDR treatment, first responder family involvement and alumni follow ups after treatment. These brave men and women are subject to a level of physical, emotional and mental stress unlike anyone else. As their jobs have become even more demanding, stress levels have increased to the point where they experience some of the country’s highest rates of substance abuse, depression and suicide. The Recover in Our Ranks Program has successfully treated hundreds of emergency personnel nationwide setting them on the path to success.
    0800
    1200
    Command and Control Leadership and Decision-Making: A Review of a Fatal OIS Ambush in 2020
    SEMINAR
    THIS COURSE IS OFFERED ON MULTIPLE DAYS


    Course Length: 4 hours - Instructor: Flippo, Daniel
    On June 6th, 2020, Air Force Sergeant Steven Carillo ambushed multiple Sheriff's Deputies investigating a suspicious abandoned vehicle. The suspect assaulted deputies with a high volume of gunfire from a concealed and elevated position. The suspect attacked other deputies, California Highway Patrol Officers, and an ambulance crew with gunfire and pipe bombs. Killed within moments of the ambush was Sgt. Damon Gutzwiller. Estimates indicate over 200 officers responded to the scene, including seven SWAT teams and multiple bomb squads. This presentation will examine the leadership challenges and decisions within the first few minutes and the next 24 hours of the event. A review of the incident will help the attendees identify predictable problems when a multijurisdictional response to an event like this occurs. A review of this event will also identify key leadership roles and actions that must be accomplished to reduce the chaos and achieve a focus of effort for personnel on the scene.
    0800
    1200
    Incident Debrief: Barricaded Sovereign Citizen Gunman, Illinois
    INCIDENT DEBRIEF


    Course Length: 4 hours - Instructor: Tencza, Brian
    This presentation discusses a barricaded gunman incident involving a subject with a military background who claimed to be a sovereign citizen and survivalist. The subject was barricaded in a residence with his wife, who indicated to negotiators that her husband had multiple shooting positions set up in the home, the front door was booby trapped with a shotgun, and there were IEDs present throughout the residence. Response involved SSERT, CNT, use of OC and CS gas, and a BearCat to gain access to the home.
    0800
    1200
    Off-Duty Critical Incident/Officer Mindset
    SEMINAR


    Course Length: 4 hours - Instructor: Hernandez, Brandon
    For any officer, being involved in an off-duty critical incident will be the most definitive and stressful event you can be involved in during your career in law enforcement. In 2008, Officer Brandon Hernandez was involved in an off-duty shooting that his family and friends witnessed. That day forever changed him and his family. In this presentation, Officer Hernandez will debrief his deadly force incident, discuss the "what happens next" after the deadly force incident when the uniformed police arrive, and how to deal with the aftermath and stress involved. He will also discuss when or when not to get involved in situations off-duty. Other topics discussed will be his second on-duty shooting, media, social media, legalities, preparedness, and mindset.
    0800
    1200
    Tactical Team Leader Considerations and Leadership Part 1
    SEMINAR
    THIS COURSE IS OFFERED ON MULTIPLE DAYS


    Course Length: 4 hours - Instructor: Murphy, Dan
    This presentation will focus on the role and responsibilities of a Team Leader in today's environment. Topics including leadership, current trends and concerns, decision-making, and operational philosophy will be discussed in depth.
    0800
    1700
    Excellence in Training
    SEMINAR


    Course Length: 8 hours - Instructor: Willis, Brian
    Excellence in Training is a comprehensive program of advanced tactical mental preparation strategies, tactics, techniques and philosophies proven to enhance law enforcement training. The seminar will inspire trainers to think differently about the way they design and deliver training. The goal is to help good trainers become great trainers, and great trainers to deliver awesome training. The strategies covered in this program have been researched, utilized and refined over the past 26 years by Brian Willis, a veteran law enforcement officer and trainer. This program is specifically designed for law enforcement trainers. Key strategies covered in this seminar include:

  • The two filtering questions and three guiding principles of Excellence in Training
  • The mind: Roles, responsibilities and programming of the conscious and subconscious mind and how that applies to training
  • Embrace the Suck: Finding the good in the challenges and obstacles experienced by all trainers
  • Training with imagination and emotion: What is it and why is it important?
  • The power of questions
  • Imagination: A key element in effective tactical preparation
  • Videos in training: Is there a better way to use them?
  • Words matter
  • Context versus stress in training
  • The key to more effective debriefings

    This dynamic and interactive seminar will challenge and inspire students to think differently about the way they conduct all aspects of training. It will provide them with simple but powerful strategies to employ immediately in training programs, at no cost to the agencies. These strategies have been proven to enhance the competence and confidence of the officers trained.
  • 0800
    1700
    High-Risk Unified Commander
    SEMINAR


    Course Length: 8 hours - Instructor: Etzin, James
    Shortly after the April 20, 1999 tragedy at Columbine High School, law enforcement agencies throughout the United States and Canada began training on the "contact team and extraction team" approach to threat and casualty management during active violence. However, because conventional fire department and emergency medical services personnel still lacked the procedures, training, and equipment to enter the warm zones of such environments and Tactical Emergency Medical Support (TEMS) providers weren’t always readily available, significant delays in accessing, treating, and transporting casualties remained. In the 23 years since that fateful spring day in Colorado, more and more law enforcement agencies, fire departments, and ambulance services have realized the importance of collaborative effort before, during, and after such critical incidents. This includes not only operations within the inner and outer perimeters, but also at the command and public messaging levels. Given the ever-increasing amount of mass violence now plaguing the country, virtually every public safety organization in North America is contemplating how to best achieve such collaboration. In response to this need, High-Risk Unified Commander (HRUC) was developed to provide contemporary strategy, tactics, and related information training officers and supervisors can then use to "stop the killing, dying and crying." With four of the eight hours of content being interactive, HRUC is a fast-paced yet comprehensive and realistic training program that offers front-line supervisors an unparalleled amount of information in a reasonable amount of time. Rather than offering theoretical and potentially impractical recommendations, the information shared is based on the experiences of supervisors who have responded to such tragedies. Participants will also learn how to apply lessons learned and recommendations to incidents occurring in urban environments with high operational tempo as well as rural ones with limited resources.
    0800
    1700
    Leadership: Choosing to Lead in Today's Police Environment
    SEMINAR


    Course Length: 8 hours - Instructor: Schaeffer, Rod
    This presentation will identify the characteristics and talents necessary to develop and lead in today's environment. The discussion will include a detailed process of leadership skills related to selection, development, and decision-making attributes on how leaders build teams. These attributes can help you make critical decisions when lives hang in the balance. Real-world operations will be reviewed and will identify leadership and team problems, and discuss solutions that reduce or mitigate injuries and loss of life. Finally, it will highlight how leadership and teamwork can positively or negatively impact the event's outcome during a critical incident. The day will include group exercises to include tabletop and interactive exercises with students in various situations that require law enforcement intervention.
    1000
    1200
    Evaluating Critical Incidents
    SEMINAR


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Pearson, David
    This presentation will use video to look at several incidents around the country and evaluate the tactical concepts and principles applied, including less-lethal options. The presenter will discuss applying tactical concepts, decision-making, and safety priorities correctly. It will also focus on the debrief process that officers can use to improve responses and implement lessons learned constructively.
    1000
    1200
    Positional Shooting Aids
    SEMINAR


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Beckstrand, Tom
    This presentation will focus on the many shooting aids that are available and used primarily by police snipers, but can be used by other law enforcement personnel. Items such as bipods, tripods, bags, and much more will be discussed. Pros and cons of each, as well as ideas for the use of each will be presented.
    1000
    1200
    The Down and Dirty of Being a SWAT Commander
    SEMINAR


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Golden, Theodore
    This course offers a unique approach to the common challenges faced by both new and veteran SWAT Commanders. Based on personal experiences, the instructor will relate challenges and recommendations specifically those in the SWAT Command role. Topics that are often overlooked, taken for granted, or rarely taught will be presented. This course is also very applicable to team leaders and others in a supervisor or leadership position on a SWAT Team.
    1300
    1445
    Incident Debrief: Palace Drive Barricade/Hostage Incident
    INCIDENT DEBRIEF


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Wolf, Bob
    In Colorado Springs, Colorado, a suspect shot the neighbor's exterior lights and cameras and then barricaded with his 92-year-old mother in the home. Over the next hour, the suspect engaged the SWAT team with several rounds of gunfire. This incident provides a behind the scenes look at the incident which included several unique tactical issues. Eventually a drone was utilized and shot out of the air by the suspect. Rook vehicles, sniper-initiated entry during a hostage rescue, and many other decisions and tactics will be discussed by those who were on scene.
    1300
    1445
    Organization and Maintenance of Tactical Medical (TACMED) Operations
    SEMINAR
    THIS COURSE IS OFFERED ON MULTIPLE DAYS


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Heath, Donald
    This presentation discusses options for Tactical Medical (TACMED) operations to support a vast array of tactical operations teams, starting with initial requirements through maintaining a seasoned TACMED element. Instruction will illustrate and contrast progress made from the inception of the first SWAT medic at Lake County Sheriff's Office in 1995 to present.
    1300
    1445
    The SWAT Drone: Maximizing its Capabilities Before Manned Entry
    SEMINAR
    THIS COURSE IS OFFERED ON MULTIPLE DAYS


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Lang, Mark
    This presentation will highlight de-escalation tactics that may be employed at a tactical incident through the introduction of a drone to enhance the effectiveness of crisis negotiations, intelligence gathering & officer safety. This presentation is ideal for SWAT Commanders, Team Leaders, Assistant Team Leader and Crisis Negotiators.
    1300
    1700
    Barricaded Suspects and Hostage Rescue Analysis
    SEMINAR
    THIS COURSE IS OFFERED ON MULTIPLE DAYS


    Course Length: 4 hours - Instructor: Perez, Eduardo | Goosby, Joe | Roca, Eddie
    This presentation will discuss tactical concepts used in barricaded suspects and hostage rescue operations. LAPD SWAT personnel will discuss tactical concepts and challenges, risk analysis, command and control, and more, using incident debriefs involving the Los Angeles Police Department SWAT Team to facilitate discussion.
    1300
    1700
    Basic Crisis Negotiations for SWAT Operators
    SEMINAR


    Course Length: 4 hours - Instructor: Drucker, Harry
    This presentation will provide an overview of negotiation tactics. This comprehensive look at the negotiation process will refresh old skills while generating new ideas. The discussion will include barriers to communication and help students identify active listening skills and indicators of progress in an incident. Also covered will be the "crisis state" and the factors that cause it.
    1300
    1700
    Public Order Best Practices with NTOA National Standards
    SEMINAR


    Course Length: 4 hours - Instructor: Davidov, Peter
    This seminar will introduce attendees to the NTOA National Standards for Public Order teams and events. Topics will include the reason and history and background for creating the standards, and the foundation concepts that the standards are based on. Additionally, the presentation will cover issues related to policing violent political protests, challenges faced, tactics utilized by protestors, and lessons learned by law enforcement.
    1300
    1700
    Tactical Team Leader Considerations and Leadership Part 2
    SEMINAR
    THIS COURSE IS OFFERED ON MULTIPLE DAYS


    Course Length: 4 hours - Instructor: Murphy, Dan
    This presentation will continue from the mornings session, but will focus on a review of tactical considerations related to barricade operations, high-risk warrant service, and hostage situations. Multiple incidents will be discussed and utilized in emphasizing the learning points.
    1300
    1700
    The New Generations: How to Recruit, Retain, Motivate and Lead
    SEMINAR


    Course Length: 4 hours - Instructor: Dietzman, Brenda
    Gen Zers are starting their careers and Millennials are taking on leadership positions within our organizations. In a refreshing way, we will explore the numerous positive characteristics they bring to our organizations and how to utilize their unique skillsets. We will study how different generations were raised and how it has molded them into the employees they are today. Building on that information, we will examine researched based studies to explore how to recruit, retain, motivate, and grow them into the leaders that we need right now and in the future. Actionable ideas will be given that will help you better recruit, hire, training and retain your workforce.
    1500
    1700
    Behavior Based CQB/Room Entry
    SEMINAR
    THIS COURSE IS OFFERED ON MULTIPLE DAYS


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Thrasher, Trevor
    Behavior Based CQB will introduce the concepts involving how humans perform under high duress CQB situations, which is often extremely disconnected due to behavioral non-compliance from what is often taught and trained. The four critical tests of any tactic or skill will be discussed in relation to CQB/SWAT training and operations. Attendees will also learn the role of the three brains or "Triune Brain" when under threat and how to mitigate performance limitations of humans experiencing fight or flight activation as related to CQB. There will be numerous videos of real-world incidents to demonstrate the concepts.
    1500
    1700
    Incident Debrief: Hostage Rescue - Human Shield
    INCIDENT DEBRIEF


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Michaud, Andrew
    This incident involved an Emergency Response Team responding to shots fired. The tactical team conducted a stealth entry, and the suspect used the hostage as a human shield, resulting in both the suspect and the hostage being shot. Eventually, the suspect took a hostage, with the suspect ultimately providing a timeline. This debrief provides a critical look at the challenges faced by the team and lessons learned. The presenters will discuss tactical intervention, communication, training, medical intervention, and team members' mental health.

    Friday September 30

    0800
    0945
    Behavior Based CQB/Room Entry
    SEMINAR
    THIS COURSE IS OFFERED ON MULTIPLE DAYS


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Thrasher, Trevor
    Behavior Based CQB will introduce the concepts involving how humans perform under high duress CQB situations, which is often extremely disconnected due to behavioral non-compliance from what is often taught and trained. The four critical tests of any tactic or skill will be discussed in relation to CQB/SWAT training and operations. Attendees will also learn the role of the three brains or "Triune Brain" when under threat and how to mitigate performance limitations of humans experiencing fight or flight activation as related to CQB. There will be numerous videos of real-world incidents to demonstrate the concepts.
    0800
    0945
    Recovery in Our Ranks
    SEMINAR
    THIS COURSE IS OFFERED ON MULTIPLE DAYS


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Wistocki, Richard
    In the advent of first responder mental health including PTSS, gambling, alcoholism and drug abuse, we are losing more first responders than ever before. This is mostly due to the trauma they experience while in performance of their duties. The "Recovery in Our Ranks" training is a hands-on experience for all persons connected to the first responder community. This training focuses on what to look for when an employee is struggling with these issues and how to get them help at the exact moment they say "OK, I need help now." The attendee will learn how to get their employee the help they need instead of ostracizing them from their organization. This training program will give an insider look at treatment modules a first responder will go through when struggling with their trauma and/or addictions. The attendee will examine all of the modules of the Haven for Our Heroes Program. This experience will go from arrival, to detox, PHP, aftercare, FMLA standards, Adventure Therapy, EMDR treatment, first responder family involvement and alumni follow ups after treatment. These brave men and women are subject to a level of physical, emotional and mental stress unlike anyone else. As their jobs have become even more demanding, stress levels have increased to the point where they experience some of the country's highest rates of substance abuse, depression and suicide. The Recover in Our Ranks Program has successfully treated hundreds of emergency personnel nationwide setting them on the path to success.
    0800
    1200
    Developing Exercises to Validate Plans and Procedures
    SEMINAR


    Course Length: 4 hours - Instructor: Komondor, Gene
    In this presentation, students will first participate in an interactive session to become familiar with the process for designing and evaluating both discussion and operations-based exercises. Discussion begins with an analysis of learning objectives and the tasks to be evaluated. Using the results of the analysis, participants will identify the various core capabilities needed by personnel to respond effectively to an incident. Students will review excerpts from actual emergency operations plans and determine the type of training needed to perform according to those plans. Exercise objectives will be developed to create an exercise scenario. Students will then write exercise evaluation guides.

    Students will then design a discussion- or operations-based exercise. Working in groups as exercise planning teams, participants will develop situation manuals or exercise plans that include targeted core capabilities and exercise objectives as well as the scenario for their exercise.

    Finally, students will learn the process for translating exercise evaluation content into an after-action review document that includes an improvement plan matrix which will serve as the basis for revising plans, policies and procedures as well as for developing future training and exercise efforts.
    0800
    1200
    Incident Debrief: Murder of Police K9 - Barricade Suspect and O.I.S.
    INCIDENT DEBRIEF


    Course Length: 4 hours - Instructor: Hurst, Robert
    On Feb. 25, 2021, the Duluth Police Department responded to a domestic assault call and identified the suspect as a fugitive with felony warrants. While officers searched the residence for the suspect, he opened fire on the officers, killing DPD K9 Luna. The Duluth Tactical Response Team responded, eventually entering the residence to locate the subject hiding in a closet and still armed. This encounter resulted in a T.R.T. operator firing at the suspect, before tactical officers withdrew from the interior of the residence. On the morning of February 26, 2021, the St. Louis County Emergency Response Team was requested to take over operations, as DPD had been on scene for over eight hours. The incident concluded with an O.I.S.
    0800
    1200
    Recruitment, Selection and Retention of SWAT Personnel
    SEMINAR


    Course Length: 4 hours - Instructor: Golden, Theodore
    This course will discuss the challenges facing SWAT Teams across the country in recruiting and retaining personnel. Methods of recruiting and retention, as well as testing factors involved in the selection process will be a focal point. Legal considerations and succession planning are issues that should be considered when developing and retaining personnel and will be presented.
    0800
    1200
    Rescue Task Force: Public Safety's Current Jedi Mind Trick
    SEMINAR


    Course Length: 4 hours - Instructor: Etzin, James
    Ever since the 1999 tragedy at Columbine High School, law enforcement agencies throughout the United States and Canada have been training on the "contact team and extraction team" approach to threat and casualty management during active assailant incidents. This is mainly attributed to the historical reluctance of conventional fire service and/or emergency medical services personnel to enter the warm zones of such environments and Tactical Emergency Medical Support (TEMS) providers not always being readily available. However, given the growing acceptance and utilization of rescue task forces, many law enforcement agencies are now falling into a dangerous trap by deemphasizing the critical roles point of wounding care by law enforcement officers, extraction teams, and unconventional transportation will continue to play during future critical incidents. Given the 35 years the presenter has spent studying such events, visiting affected communities, and interviewing countless emergency responders and survivors who were involved, many past and recent examples of extraction teams contributing to casualty survival will be referenced. Information will also be provided that will arm command officers with reasonable expectations and help perimeter personnel, contact teams, extraction teams, rescue task forces, conventional fire service/emergency medical services personnel, SWAT officers, and hospital providers work together to simultaneously "stop the killing and dying."
    0800
    1200
    Response to Suicidal Subjects: What Are You Doing?
    SEMINAR


    Course Length: 4 hours - Instructor: Pearson, David
    This presentation is designed to educate police personnel on the legalities and challenges faced when responding to suicidal subjects. Unique perspectives are provided in order to provoke discussion within agencies to have a true understanding of the relevant Constitutional requirements. Case law examples are provided as talking points to assist in guiding policy and response decision-making. In addition, model programs from throughout the United States are presented as potential options for agencies to consider.
    0800
    1200
    Snipers at Work
    SEMINAR


    Course Length: 4 hours - Instructor: Bartlett, Derrick
    Many people, both inside and outside the tactical community, have a limited understanding of what police snipers really do, or when and where they do it. A sniper’s true mission is surrounded in mystery and mythology. This is to the detriment of the dedicated individuals filling the sniper role on tactical teams around the country. This presentation will look closely at the real world of police sniper operations. Through various historical case studies, we will learn about training, equipment and tactics unique to the most challenging and important job in the tactical world
    1000
    1200
    Applying Decentralized Command in SWAT Operations
    SEMINAR


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Cyr, Kevin
    Exercising strict command and control over SWAT operations is alluring to commanders who want to control risk. However, more often than not, the sense of control that rigid command processes provide is a mere illusion, and such strategies often create risk. This session will explore how to institute decentralized command in high-risk situations. It will explore concepts including contributors to flawed decision-making, contingency planning, team culture, and formulating mission statements and commanders intent to maximize the operational capability of SWAT teams. These concepts will be applied to search warrants, barricades, and hostage takings.
    1000
    1200
    Incident Debrief: Alhambra Bank Robbery
    INCIDENT DEBRIEF


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Drucker, Harry
    This presentation will detail the actions taken by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Special Enforcement Bureau during a bank robbery situation in Alhambra, CA. The presenter will review the challenges faced and lessons learned in this unique critical incident that included hostages.
    1300
    1500
    4-Day Fugitive Manhunt with OIS
    SEMINAR


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Cyr, Kevin
    This incident will highlight a multi-jurisdictional response to a gunman who shot a police officer. The manhunt lasted four days, ultimately becoming a barricaded suspect incident. The incident commander will conduct this debrief and present some interesting command decision-making challenges and lessons learned in the domains of physical and organizational risk. The attendee will glean lessons from what went well and could have been improved.
    1300
    1500
    Building a Patrol CQB Program
    SEMINAR
    THIS COURSE IS OFFERED ON MULTIPLE DAYS


    Course Length: 2 hours - Instructor: Ellis, Eric
    This presentation is designed to familiarize instructors who are interested in building a Patrol CQB program at their organization. Instruction will include how to present the need for this type of training to the administration for approval, and how to structure a progressive training program for officers. It will break down selection of CQB protocol and discuss phasing it into various learning stages via a stair-stepped progression. This will ensure safer patrol personnel and better SWAT candidates for organizations.