Tactical Patrol Officer (TPO) Certification Program

We are working hard to open student registration in April/May 2024

An intensive training initiative meticulously crafted to equip law enforcement officers with comprehensive tactical skills.

All courses in the TPO Program are
OPOTA CPT APPROVED!

These skills are strategically chosen to enhance officers' capabilities in handling unexpected and ongoing violent criminal events, ensuring their safety and the safety of the community they serve.

The TPO certification program covers various topics, each aimed at building a robust foundation for tactical proficiency.

This training initiative is a collaboration between the Ohio Attorney General's Office, the Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy (OPOTA), and the Ohio Tactical Officers Association (OTOA). All courses in this certification program are approved for 2024 Continuing Professional Training (CPT) hours.

Training Hours Breakdown:

  • Critical Incident Leadership for Patrol Operations – 8 hours
  • Contemporary Use of Force and Case Law – 4 hours
  • Active Shooter Response – 16 hours
  • Tactical Patrol Officer Rifle & Pistol Level I & II – 16 hours
  • Close Quarter Concepts for Patrol – 16 hours
  • Subject De-escalation During Vehicle Encounters – 8 hours
  • Conflict Resolution & De-Escalation – 8 hours
  • Self-Aid Buddy Aid (TCCC) – 4 hours

Total Hours: 80

The program's meticulously crafted design guarantees a well-rounded and thorough approach to tactical training. By seamlessly integrating legal, leadership, and medical components with specialized tactical skills, officers are equipped with a diverse skill set to navigate a broad spectrum of challenges effectively.

Legal and Ethical Foundation

The legal module establishes a solid foundation, ensuring officers comprehend the laws governing their actions. The program instills ethical decision-making by addressing legal considerations in using force and presenting real-world case studies.

Leadership in High-Stress Situations

The leadership module hones in on qualities essential for high-stress situations. Officers develop skills in swift decision-making, effective team coordination, and clear communication, fostering strong leadership capabilities crucial in dynamic environments.

Medical Proficiency and Self-Aid

Incorporating a dedicated medical module, the program emphasizes the importance of tactical medical training. Officers acquire life-saving techniques, trauma care skills, and self-aid practices, enhancing their ability to respond to injuries and emergencies.

Specialized Tactical Skills

The tactical modules, including Active Shooter Response, Firearms Proficiency, Tactics, and Close - Quarter Concepts, provide officers with specialized skills tailored to diverse operational scenarios. From active shooter situations to urban and rural tactical considerations, officers gain expertise in strategic responses.

Vehicle Encounters Involving Occupants

The program recognizes the significance of tactical vehicle operations. It covers maneuvers, positioning, and engagement strategies essential for law enforcement officers. Understanding the points of failure & friction with subject interactions in or around vehicles is a key focus. Pre-stop procedures are emphasized to mitigate risk and enhance officer safety. Additionally, the module includes guidance on vehicle-based cover and concealment strategies, ensuring officers are well-prepared for high-stakes situations involving vehicular engagement.

De-escalation and Conflict Resolution

The Scenario & De-escalation and Conflict Resolution & De-Escalation modules emphasize the importance of non-violent resolution strategies. Realistic scenario-based training helps officers refine their decision-making skills in dynamic situations, promoting de-escalation when possible.

Public Safety Integration

The addition of the Public Safety Integration module underscores the commitment to ensuring the public's safety during law enforcement operations. Officers engage in strategies prioritizing community safety, fostering positive relations, and effective communication.

Continuous Adaptation

The program ensures officers stay abreast of evolving legal standards by addressing contemporary use of force and case law. This knowledge empowers them to adapt their tactics within the bounds of the law, enhancing overall effectiveness.

In summary, this comprehensive program goes beyond traditional tactical training, preparing officers for the challenges of violent criminal events and the complexities of daily law enforcement. It fosters a well-rounded, adaptive, and ethically sound approach, ultimately contributing to the safety and well-being of both officers and the communities they serve.