For years, use-of-force investigations handled by experienced homicide detectives – talented investigators with no specialized training in how officers make split-second decisions under life-threatening stress.

With the explosion of body camera, the expectation of de-escalation, and police reform… that’s no longer enough.

With the old way, issues that mattered at trials or in IA — decision making windows, timing, and realistic human performance — were missed in the investigation or in the report. 

Without a thorough investigation, people were left to make their own judgement about reasonableness.  And well… officers were increasingly charged, terminated, or sued.

Despite all the knowledge that investigators can obtain about force, most investigators still use the old method… experience only.

To be clear, the problem isn’t poor investigative skill.  Most are highly experienced.

The problem is the absence of specific methods necessary for complex use of force incidents… And that… can only be learned in training.  

Once the right framework is applied – grounding investigations in human factors science, and investigative methods tools – the picture for decision makers changes entirely.

With or without this necessary training, your investigation is the cornerstone of what happens next with that officer.

Sleep better at night knowing that you conducted a thorough, bias-free, and accurate investigation to pass on to decision makers.