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…)
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…)