NCJ Number
153268
Date Published
1994
Length
43 pages
Annotation
This booklet outlines the materials for seven units of a curriculum on the use of force by police under California law and departmental policies.
Abstract
Instructional goals include an understanding of the role that training has in preparing students to cope with dangerous situations and to use reasonable force, as well as an understanding of the liability associated with the use of force. Other curriculum goals are knowledge of the conditions under which force can be lawfully used, knowledge of force options, and the ability to make judgments about the level of force justified by a given set of circumstances. The curriculum will also impart an understanding of the concept of fear and anger management, the basic concept of intervention to prevent unreasonable use of force, and an understanding of the importance of effective tactical communication in use-of-force situations. Required tests are a knowledge test and a scenario test that requires the student to respond to simulated encounters with suspects under circumstances that justify varying levels of force. Students are provided with a minimum of 8 hours of instruction on the use of force.