National Association of Field Training Officers

Below 100

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December 21, 2013• Trainers Blog

Below 100

I usually don’t stop to write openly about my inner thoughts and emotions very often. But this may be good therapy? And yes, all active personalities in my head agree that this is a topic worth talking about.

I was driving into work this last Wednesday and turned on the radio to listen to my favorite afternoon sports show. Programming was different that day. I was listening to the annual fundraiser show this radio station and disc jockey run to raise funds for the 100 Club of Arizona. A very worthy organization, that help financially support the families of fallen officers and firefighters. (more…)

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December 17, 2013• 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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October 14, 2013• Trainers Blog

Blue Knights with Lt. Dan Marcou

Blue Knights
 with Lt. Dan Marcou

On patrol you are not looking for something, you are looking for everything.”  A long-time Field Training Officer told this to every recruit he ever trained.  He hoped to encourage them to be proactive and maintain a wide-open mind, during every contact. He did this because experience had taught him that one good cop can make a difference. (more…)

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September 11, 2013• 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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