Trainers Blog

Overrides

Recently, I read a Daily Observation Report (DOR) prepared by one of my FTOs.  The following is an excerpt of the report:  “We were on routine patrol when I ran a random license plate check of a nearby vehicle.  The vehicle returned clear of stolen, but the male R/O had an outstanding misdemeanor warrant.  I then directed my student officer to pull up beside the vehicle in order to observe the driver.  I observed the male driver fit the physicals listed by the DOL for the R/O and on the outstanding warrant.  I directed my S/O to initiate a traffic stop.  My S/O made several lame protests about “PC” and other trivial matters regarding the validity of the traffic stop.  Realizing an override was necessary, I backhanded him in my standard method of correction.  After only one “puppy-like” yelp, my S/O activated our patrol car’s overhead lights and stopped the car…”  (Okay, I’m kidding) (more…)

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Trainers Blog

Officer Safety: Inside and Out

Officer Safety: Inside and Out
By Sgt. David J. Harris

As the FTO Coordinator for my agency, it has been quite some time since I had a Student Officer in my car.  Recently that opportunity presented itself.  I found myself recalling all of the skill sets required to an effective FTO.  One thing that stood out to me is just how many things I need to know about the inside of the car-that has absolutely nothing to do with the Student Officer! (more…)

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