Officer-Involved Shootings: A Guide for Law Enforcement Leaders

Though few officers will be directly involved in a hostile shooting situation during their careers, many more may experience the impact of one; the effects of such events touch not only the officer involved, but the department and the community as well. Because of the gravity of officer-involved shootings, it is vitally important to ensure that the agency and its officers are prepared in advance for such an event. This guide is intended to provide guidance for preparing officers and departments prior to an officer-involved shooting, suggested incident scene actions and procedures, recommended procedures for conducting criminal and administrative investigations, suggestions for working with the media, and mental health and wellness considerations and procedures.

---

Author: International Association of Chiefs of Police

Federal Sponsor Agency: COPS

Provider: International Association of Chiefs of Police

Publication Date: 2016