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The use of force by law enforcement remains one of the most scrutinized and debated aspects of policing. While officers receive extensive training on force applications, public perception and policy shifts often reshape how they can respond to threats.
In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley speaks with Joshua Coleman, vice president of the California Force Instructors Association (CALFIA), about the importance of evidence-based training, legislative challenges and why officers often find themselves caught between policy expectations and real-world dangers.
In the discussion, Coleman explains why CALFIA was founded, the challenges of navigating force policies in a post-2020 landscape and how California’s legislative changes have impacted officers’ decision-making in critical incidents. He also highlights how misconceptions about techniques like the carotid restraint have led to policy decisions that, while well-intentioned, may ultimately put both officers and suspects at greater risk.
Tune in to discover:
- Why use-of-force training needs to be rooted in science, not politics.
- How the removal of the carotid hold has created new challenges for officers.
- The importance of transparency in post-incident communication.
- Why officers are struggling with decision-making in high-stakes encounters.
- How virtual reality and scenario-based training are shaping the next generation of force instruction.
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Key takeaways from this episode
- Legislation impacts real-world decisions: Recent policy changes in California have created hesitation among officers, as the fear of legal repercussions influences how they respond in life-threatening situations.
- Training must reflect reality: Coleman emphasizes that the most effective training incorporates decision-making under stress, scenario-based exercises and interdisciplinary approaches, rather than siloed instruction.
- Public perception shapes policy: Without clear, proactive communication from law enforcement leaders, misleading narratives can drive reforms that don’t align with best practices.
- Technology is advancing training: Innovations like virtual reality, real-world decision-making simulators and integrated force training models are becoming essential tools for officers to prepare for unpredictable encounters.
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