This workshop is based on the L.E.A.D.S. – Law Enforcement Active Diffusion Strategies force mitigation and avoidance course. Recently receiving the 2022 F.B.I. National Academy Associates Award. This workshop covers the realities of de-escalation and force mitigation. Discussion will be on the facts, myths, and misrepresentation of conflict resolution in law enforcement settings. Actual de-escalation strategies will be discussed along with how to properly document the diffusion tactics within the report. We will also cover how de-escalation, or the lack of de-escalation can be used against the officer in litigation. We will wrap up with strategies and tactics to prepare when de-escalation is not a suitable option.
This course will also focus on areas including:
- Real-world de-escalation and force mitigation strategies
- Proper documentation of diffusion tactics in reports
- Legal implications of de-escalation in litigation and when it’s not viable
Our training experts recommend this course for all officers, ranks, and command staff.
Instructors: Attorney Eric Atstupenas
Eric Atstupenas is dedicated to empowering law enforcement professionals through practical and insightful legal guidance. As General Counsel for the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association, Eric combines his legal expertise with a deep connection to the law enforcement community—a passion inspired by his father’s own service in the field. Licensed in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut, he has focused his career on guiding officers and leadership through the complexities of today’s legal challenges.
Eric serves as Chair of the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Legal Officers Section and is a member of the IACP Committee on Human and Civil Rights. He also supports law enforcement training in Massachusetts as a board member of the Municipal Police Institute, Inc.
His work has been featured in Police Chief magazine, and he is a frequent speaker at conferences across the country. Eric’s collaborative approach has led him to partner with experts like Eric Daigle, Esq. of Daigle Law Group, LLC, to provide impactful consulting and training opportunities for law enforcement agencies. He also owns and manages BrightRaven Strategies, LLC, which offers training, consulting, and legal advising tailored to law enforcement needs.
In every role he undertakes, Eric’s mission remains clear: to empower law enforcement professionals with the knowledge and resources they need to protect and serve their communities with confidence and care.
- Credit Hours: 2
- Class ID: SP-0425-A3
- Areas: 701
- Topic: Supervision, Leadership
Please click here to contact the DLG Learning Center support staff with any questions about this course.