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California Model: Probation and Parole Safety Training

NCJ Number
136228
Journal
American Probation and Parole Association Perspectives Volume: 15 Issue: 4 Dated: (Fall 1991) Pages: 38-41
Author(s)
A G Smith
Date Published
1991
Length
6 pages
Annotation
The California Department of Corrections implemented a safety program into parole operations in accordance with a court requirement to provide firearms to its officers.
Abstract
The program integrates firearm and other safety equipment into parole operations without adversely affecting agent behavior or parole mission. It consists of a training program focusing on the range of safety options available to all agents and skill related training in how to utilize them. A scale was developed to identify the range of options and to emphasize the principle that the least forceful option is not only good judgment, but also a legal mandate. The core curriculum includes information gathering regarding offender's behavior, problem identification and analysis/assessment, tactical planning, field safety procedures, exterior safety, interior safety, techniques for dealing with multi-family dwellings, defusing, confrontation techniques, and office design and safety. In addition to the core curriculum, there are several modules on specific training on arrest techniques and procedures, search and seizure planning and procedures, firearm management and tactics, and a course on physical self-defense. These courses reflect the least force philosophy of the program as well. Teaching methods include team teaching, hands on simulation, and pretaped videotapes. By any measure this training program has proven successful, but especially its safety record.