CJC-5010AQ - Use of Force for Field Training Officers

Course Description

The role of a Field Training Officer (FTO) is key for the success, effectiveness, and safety of a new officer. Often training for FTOs is limited to the type of field training model used by an agency and not on the knowledge and skills needed to demonstrate, mentor, and evaluate a new officer. These skills are different than simply performing well as a patrol officer. 

This course reviews critical BLET skills, tactics, and techniques FTOs need to assess and evaluate. Arrest process, handcuffing, searches, vehicle stops, domestic calls, mental commitments, driving, and voluntary encounters are some examples. Communication and de-escalation skills also need to be assessed and mentored. Use of Force assessment and Root Cause Analysis skills are provided. Stress management, judgement, and decision-making should be assessed by an FTO. This course provides a process. In order to manage the risks of being an FTO, defensible documentation justifying passing/failing a rookie is essential. Too often only opinions are given which do not justify an assessment. Generalized evaluations likely increase liability risk to the FTO and the agency. Specific tasks assessed supported with detailed observations provide the basis for a defensible evaluation. This course provides examples of how this is accomplished.