Training Class: Giving Commands Before Shooting - Is it Possible?

Published on January 22, 2019
Duration: 3:38

This video demonstrates the critical concept that a subject's intent to use a firearm can supersede an officer's commands. Instructor Mike emphasizes that in high-stress, immediate threat situations, the time to issue commands may not exist, and an officer's reaction must be based on perceived threat. The core objective in law enforcement use of force is the preservation of life, not adherence to procedural commands when immediate action is required to prevent harm.

Quick Summary

In law enforcement, the preservation of life is the ultimate goal. Instructor Mike demonstrates that a subject's intent to shoot can be faster than an officer's ability to issue commands, highlighting the need for immediate action in critical threat scenarios.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Commands vs. Shooting Speed
  2. 00:23The Concept of Intent
  3. 00:33Demonstration: Commands Ignored
  4. 00:39Preservation of Life as the Objective
  5. 00:56Ultimate Goal: Preserving Life
  6. 01:03Why Commands Can Be Too Late
  7. 01:19The Procedural Trap of Commands
  8. 01:30Recognizing Immediate Threats
  9. 01:38Debunking TV Show Portrayals
  10. 01:56The Speed of Reaction
  11. 02:02Demonstration: Rapid Engagement

Frequently Asked Questions

Can issuing commands always stop a shooter?

Not necessarily. In situations where a subject has immediate intent to use a firearm, their actions can be faster than an officer's ability to issue effective commands. The priority is always the preservation of life, which may require immediate action.

What is the primary goal of using force in law enforcement?

The primary objective in law enforcement use of force is the preservation of life. This includes protecting the lives of officers, innocent bystanders, and even the subject, if possible, while neutralizing an immediate threat.

Why might an officer not issue commands before shooting?

An officer might not issue commands if the subject presents an immediate lethal threat, such as drawing a weapon. In such critical moments, the time required to issue commands could be the difference between life and death, making immediate defensive action necessary.

How does a subject's intent affect an officer's response?

A subject's intent to use a firearm can be a critical factor. If an officer perceives an immediate intent to cause harm, their training dictates a response based on neutralizing that threat, which may precede or bypass verbal commands due to the speed of the situation.

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