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De-escalation is one of the most discussed expectations in law enforcement. It’s also one of the most misunderstood. Most people agree it matters. Fewer agree on what it actually looks like in real situations. That’s where confusion begins.

De-escalation Is Not Avoidance

At its core, de-escalation is about reducing the intensity of a situation. It is not about avoiding action. There are moments when slowing things down is possible - and moments when it isn’t. Situations involving immediate threats, active violence, or rapidly changing conditions may not allow time for extended communication. In those moments, action may be required. Recognizing the difference is part of the job.

It Starts with Control - Not Just Conversation

De-escalation is often framed as communication alone. Communication matters. Tone matters. The words used can influence how a situation unfolds. But communication is only one part of it.

De-escalation also involves:

  • Positioning and distance

  • Time and pacing

  • Awareness of surroundings

  • Coordination with other responders

These factors can reduce tension before a word is ever spoken.

Time Is the Key Factor

When de-escalation works, it often comes down to one thing: Time. The ability to slow a situation down - even briefly - creates options. Options allow for communication, assessment, and adjustment. But time isn’t always available. Leaders and communities alike need to understand that de-escalation is influenced by the conditions of the moment - not just the intent of the officer.

Training Must Reflect Reality

If de-escalation is going to be effective, it has to be trained realistically. Not just as a concept - but as a skill applied under pressure.

  • Scenario-based training that includes unpredictable behavior

  • Decision-making under stress

  • Practice in recognizing when de-escalation is possible - and when it is not

Without that, expectations and performance begin to separate.

The Limits Need to Be Clear

One of the challenges in this area is unclear boundaries. If expectations around de-escalation are not defined, officers are left to interpret them on their own. That creates inconsistency.

Strong leadership makes those limits clear:

  • When de-escalation should be attempted

  • When it may not be appropriate

  • How decisions will be evaluated afterward

Clarity in these areas supports better decisions in the field.

Public Expectation and Operational Reality

De-escalation is closely tied to public trust. Communities expect situations to be handled in ways that reduce harm whenever possible. That expectation is reasonable. But it must be balanced with the reality that not every situation allows for a gradual approach. Bridging that gap requires communication - before and after incidents - not just during them.

Supervisors Reinforce the Standard

Supervisors play a key role in how de-escalation is applied. What they reinforce becomes the expectation. If they recognize and support appropriate de-escalation efforts, those practices grow. If they overlook them - or treat them as secondary - officers adjust accordingly. Consistency here matters.

What This Comes Down To

De-escalation is an important part of modern law enforcement. But it is not a single tactic. It is a combination of awareness, judgment, communication, and control - applied within the limits of the situation. Leaders who understand that don’t reduce it to a slogan. They train it. They define it. They support it with clear expectations and consistent review. Because in the end, de-escalation is not about doing less. It’s about doing what the situation requires - at the right time, in the right way.

Bibliography

  • Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) programs: A review of research and future directions - Watson, A. C., et al.

  • The role of de-escalation in the policing of domestic violence in Australia - McPhedran, S.

  • Policing and de-escalation strategies: A systematic review - Engel, R. S., et al.

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Why Fullerton PD? The Fullerton Police Department believes in and utilizes a Community-based policing philosophy, which follows the principle that when communities and law enforcement engage in communication and cooperation, we can better serve the community as a whole. As a result, personnel are involved in all aspects of the community, including schools, neighborhoods, and community organizations. As you already know, law enforcement is a noble and honorable calling that requires integrity, honesty, dedication, and a commitment to serving our community. With a complement of approximately 180 employees, 125 sworn and 55 civilian positions, our department is made up of men and women who encompass these qualities. We pride ourselves on our family environment, where you aren't just another number, but an integral part of our mission. Rediscover that feeling of excitement and commitment by joining the Fullerton PD. APPLY TODAY! Highlights of the Memorandum of Agreement include: Future across-the-board increase: 4% in July of 2027 6% Longevity Pay* after your 5th year of City employment 10% Longevity Pay* after your 9th year of City employment - Years of experience with another law enforcement agency counts too! * See the Memorandum of Agreement for details, as well as additional benefits information. The Position: The City of Fullerton is seeking experienced Police Officers to fill multiple vacancies. Under general supervision, performs sworn police duties in the prevention of crime and the enforcement of law and order; performs police patrol, investigation, traffic regulation, special assignments, and other law enforcement activities, and performs related work as required. The Police Officer position is a series that includes: Police Officer I $7,734 - $10,882 per mo. Police Officer II** $7,927 - $11,154 per mo. Police Officer III** $8,468 - $11,916 per mo. **Please refer to the job description to view additional requirements for advancement. Years of sworn law enforcement experience with another law enforcement agency now count toward the service years requirement. Employment Guidelines Requirements for a Lateral or Academy Trained Police Officer: Graduation from high school; and Possession of a valid POST Basic, Intermediate, or Advanced certificate; or Graduation from a POST-certified academy within the last three years; or Completion of a POST-sponsored recertification course. This is required if you have not been employed with a California law enforcement agency within the last three years or within three years of graduation from a POST-certified academy. Must be able to work a flexible schedule to accommodate City needs. Shift work and work on weekends and holidays is required. Incumbents are subject to overtime and callback. Must be able to pass a department pre-employment screening and background. Lateral transfers to the classification of Police Officer from other agencies must possess a Basic POST Certificate at the time of City of Fullerton appointment. Valid Class C California Driver's License and acceptable driving record at the time of appointment and throughout employment in this position. Process: Candidates must attach a valid POST Basic, Intermediate, or Advanced certificate, proof of completion of a POST recertification course, or proof of completion for a POST academy within the last three years, to the application. Candidates who successfully pass the application review will be invited to participate in a department interview. Please click here to review the Police Officer job description in full. If you have any questions about our Police Department or the hiring process, please contact Corporal Justin Melendez at JMelendez@FullertonPD.org. Sounds good so far, but what's so great about Fullerton? So glad you asked... Fullerton is a vibrant city known for its diverse and welcoming community, rich cultural scene, and charming atmosphere. Nestled in North Orange County, Fullerton boasts a mix of historic architecture and modern amenities, providing residents and visitors with a unique blend of past and present. The city is home to California State University, Fullerton, contributing to a dynamic and youthful energy. With a variety of parks, including the iconic Hillcrest Park, and a bustling downtown area featuring unique shops, restaurants, and cultural venues, Fullerton offers a lively and engaging lifestyle. hoice for individuals seeking fulfilling and meaningful employment. As a government agency and employer, we are committed to providing essential services and maintaining a high quality of life for our residents, while creating a sense of purpose and community impact for employees. The City of Fullerton offers attractive compensation and benefits packages as well as opportunities for professional development and advancement. Our organization has a great range of positions, across various departments, allowing individuals to find roles that align with their skills, education, and experience. Being part of our city also means contributing to the well-being and development of the local community, which fosters a sense of civic pride and responsibility among all employees. We have a work culture that values diversity, inclusivity, and collaboration, making us a fabulous choice for individuals seeking fulfilling and meaningful employment. Supplemental Information Additional Information: Applications will be accepted on a continuous basis and will remain on file for six months from the date received and are reviewed when there is a need to fill a vacancy. After the six-month period, applicants are encouraged to re-apply. Applicants considered for appointment to Police Officer are subject to an extensive and in-depth background investigation, including a polygraph examination. All employment offers, including appointment offers to City of Fullerton employees, are conditional based upon the successful completion of a medical examination performed by the City's designated physician, at City expense. Medical examinations are administered to assess an individual's ability to perform the physical and mental requirements of this position. In addition, City of Fullerton employees appointed to safety-sensitive classifications and all new hires will undergo a drug screen. All new hires, including non-regular City of Fullerton employees, appointed to this position will serve a one-year probationary period. California Government Code §3100 – 3109 requires that all public employees are to be declared disaster service workers and shall take and subscribe to the related oath or affirmation as required. The Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 requires that you must be a U.S. citizen or an alien lawfully authorized to work in the United States to be eligible for hire. The provisions of this bulletin do not constitute an expressed or implied contract. Any provision contained in this bulletin may be modified or revoked without notice. The City of Fullerton is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, age, ancestry, national origin, political or religious affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, other non-job related physical or mental disability, medical condition, or other functional limitation in employment or the provision of service. The City is committed to making its programs, services, and activities accessible to individuals with qualified disabilities. If you require reasonable accommodations to complete the employment application and/or participate in the testing process, please contact the Human Resources Office at (714) 738-6361 prior to the filing deadline. We will attempt to reasonably accommodate applicants with disabilities upon request. The City is committed to making its programs, services, and activities accessible to individuals with qualified disabilities. If you require reasonable accommodations to complete the employment application and/or participate in the testing process, please contact the Human Resources Office at (714) 738-6361 prior to the filing deadline. We will attempt to reasonably accommodate applicants with disabilities upon request. To make sure that our emails are not filtered into your "junk" or "bulk" folder, please add GovernmentJobs.com to your list of trusted senders. Communication regarding your application and/or status will be sent to the email address listed on your application. Please check your email regularly throughout the recruitment process as you will not receive communication through U.S. mail.

Fullerton, California
$92,803.36 - $142,987.52 Annually
Law-Enforcement and Policing
about 11 hours ago
Apply
FULL TIME
Police Officer - Lateral
Police

Definition Lateral Police Officer Incentive Program: Candidates who are successfully hired by the City of Alhambra shall be eligible to receive a $20,000.00 bonus. The top salary range for this position currently reaches $139,167.84, PLUS, an excellent benefits package! To be considered as a Police Officer Lateral, applicants must be a current full-time California Police Officer. Under direct supervision, will perform law enforcement and crime prevention work to protect public safety, health and welfare; uphold and enforce federal, state and local laws; may be assigned to special assignments; and perform related duties as assigned. SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED: Supervision is provided by Chief of Police or designee. Essential Job Functions Essential job functions may include, but are not limited to, the following: (These functions may not be present in all positions in this classification. When a position is filled, the essential functions will be noted in the announcement of position availability. Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind work assignments as needed.) Uphold and enforce the law to include: municipal and penal codes, state and local ordinances without malice or prejudice; patrols City in radio-equipped car or on foot; patrols an assigned beat; answer calls for the protection of life and property. Receive, recall, and carry out orders from supervising officers; apprehend and arrest law violators using verbal commands, physical strength and deadly force; issue traffic and other citations; recognize, assess and handle emergency situations; inspect premises; investigate crimes and conduct interviews; and communicate with people of diverse backgrounds. Collect, preserve, package and label evidence at crime scenes; operate a motor vehicle and/or work outside under a variety of weather conditions; identify illegal substances and recognize the symptomology of substances such as drugs and intoxicants; and determine whether a crime is being committed. Check buildings for physical security; search, fingerprint, transport and maintain physical care and/or control over individuals in custody. Handle traffic and/or crowd control; assists outside agencies such as the fire department and other federal, state and local agencies; write reports, citations and warnings; testify in court; tender first aide; attend briefings; recall and interpret directions. Control stressful and emotional situations through verbal commands and/or physical force; and provide information to the public regarding methods for self-protection during emergency situations and disasters. Perform a multitude of activities at one time; be punctual; perform extensive research and background investigations utilizing a variety of resources to include the computer systems of the city, county, state, federal government; communicate and receive information via police radio; communicate with and relay orders to other officers; perform related duties as assigned; maintain regular attendance. Qualification Guidelines Education: High School Diploma or GED required. College level coursework in Criminal Justice/ Administration of Justice or related field are desirable. Licenses And Certificates: Must possess and maintain a valid Class “C” California Driver’s License as a condition of employment. Pursuant to Penal Code section 832.4, as a condition of employment, all permanent, non-probationary police officers must possess and maintain a valid and current California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) Basic certificate. Ineligibility or decertification from P.O.S.T. will automatically make a person in this position ineligible to serve in the capacity of a peace officer. Police Officers must possess a valid and current Basic certificate from the P.O.S.T. at the time of hire or obtain a proof of Eligibility (POE) from P.O.S.T. within ten (10) days of hire. Police Officer Pre-Service must either be currently enrolled or have completed a P.O.S.T. certified basic police academy but need not have successfully completed a field training program at the time of hire. Police Officer Pre-Service must possess a valid and current Basic certificate from the P.O.S.T. at the time of hire or obtain a Proof of Eligibility (POE) from P.O.S.T. within ten (10) days of appointment. Police Officer Lateral must be currently employed as a full-time sworn Peace Officer in the State of California from a P.O.S.T. participating agency or department and must possess a valid and current Basic certificate from the P.O.S.T. at the time of hire or obtain a Proof of Eligibility (POE) from P.O.S.T. within ten (10) days of appointment. Knowledge of: Departmental policies, operations and standard procedures; applicable federal, state and local laws, codes and regulations; code principles, law enforcement methods and procedures including patrol, crime prevention and suppression. Business letter writing and other document preparation methods. Ability to: Think and act quickly in emergencies, and judge situations and people accurately. Learn, understand, and interpret laws and regulations. Prepare timely, accurate and grammatically correct written reports. Learn standard broadcasting procedures of a police radio system. Establish and maintain a cooperative working relationship with those contacted in the course of work. Understand and carry out oral and written instructions. Observe accurately and remember faces, numbers, incidents, and places. Use and care of firearms. Work in physically confrontational and emotionally charged situations. Respond to emergencies. Read maps and legal documents, interpret abstract and concrete variables. Communicate before groups with poise and voice control. Apply logic/data to define problems and draw conclusions. Apply own rationale to solve problems, work within set standards and communicate clearly. Special Qualifications: Must be at least 21 years of age at the time of appointment. Must meet all of the following requirements: 1.) Be legally authorized to work in the United States by federal law; 2.) Be fingerprinted for the purposes of search of local, state, and national fingerprint files to disclose any criminal record; 3.) Of good moral character, as determined by a thorough background investigation; and 4.) Be found to be free from any physical, emotional, or mental condition, including bias against race or ethnicity, gender, nationality, religion, disability, or sexual orientation, which might adversely affect the exercise of the powers of a peace officer. Must have no felony convictions and/or convictions which would restrict the ability to possess a firearm. Bilingual skills are highly desirable. Licenses and Certificates Possession of and ability to maintain a valid Class “C” California Driver’s License. MEDICAL STANDARDS: Applicants must be in good physical condition as determined by a medical examination, with weight in proportion to height, and consistent with P.O.S.T. guidelines for hearing and vision. PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Ability to lift up to 150 pounds is required. Position requires prolonged sitting, standing, walking, running, jumping; reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, squatting, and stooping in the performance of daily office activities. The position also requires the ability to get from one location to another in the course of doing business; grasping, repetitive hand movement, and fine coordination in retrieving and entering data using a computer keyboard. Additionally, the position requires near and far vision in reading work related documents and using the computer, and the ability to distinguish colors and acute hearing when providing phone and personal service; drive motorized vehicles; and operate a variety of law enforcement equipment. WORK ENVIRONMENT: Work is performed in a standard office setting and outside in sometimes tense, uncertain, and rapidly evolving circumstances. Employee may travel to different locations and may be exposed to inclement weather conditions, noise, vibration, dust, or potentially hazardous chemicals. Noise level in the work environment is usually high and the employee may be exposed to loud talking and frequent interruptions from telephones, City staff, and/or members of the public. The nature of the work also requires incumbents to drive motorized vehicles and work in heavy vehicle traffic conditions. NOTE: The duties, skills, and demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. When appropriate, reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with a disability to perform the essential functions of the position. A person holding this position is considered a “mandated reporter” under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with this obligation as a condition of employment.

Alhambra, California
$109,041.72 - $139,167.84 Annually
Law-Enforcement and Policing
about 11 hours ago
Apply
FULL TIME
Police Officer - Pre-Service
Police

Definition Applicants that are enrolled or currently attending, a POST approved Basic Police Academy, will get paid as a Police Recruit at $8,164.00 per month. Upon graduation from a POST approved Basic Police Academy, applicants will receive the Police Officer salary of $9,086.81 per month. The top salary range for this position currently reaches $139,167.84, PLUS, an excellent benefits package! Under direct supervision, will perform law enforcement and crime prevention work to protect public safety, health and welfare; uphold and enforce federal, state and local laws; may be assigned to special assignments; and perform related duties as assigned. SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED: Supervision is provided by Chief of Police or designee. Essential Job Functions Essential job functions may include, but are not limited to, the following: (These functions may not be present in all positions in this classification. When a position is filled, the essential functions will be noted in the announcement of position availability. Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind work assignments as needed.) Uphold and enforce the law to include: municipal and penal codes, state and local ordinances without malice or prejudice; patrols City in radio-equipped car or on foot; patrols an assigned beat; answer calls for the protection of life and property. Receive, recall, and carry out orders from supervising officers; apprehend and arrest law violators using verbal commands, physical strength and deadly force; issue traffic and other citations; recognize, assess and handle emergency situations; inspect premises; investigate crimes and conduct interviews; and communicate with people of diverse backgrounds. Collect, preserve, package and label evidence at crime scenes; operate a motor vehicle and/or work outside under a variety of weather conditions; identify illegal substances and recognize the symptomology of substances such as drugs and intoxicants; and determine whether a crime is being committed. Check buildings for physical security; search, fingerprint, transport and maintain physical care and/or control over individuals in custody. Handle traffic and/or crowd control; assists outside agencies such as the fire department and other federal, state and local agencies; write reports, citations and warnings; testify in court; tender first aide; attend briefings; recall and interpret directions. Control stressful and emotional situations through verbal commands and/or physical force; and provide information to the public regarding methods for self-protection during emergency situations and disasters. Perform a multitude of activities at one time; be punctual; perform extensive research and background investigations utilizing a variety of resources to include the computer systems of the city, county, state, federal government; communicate and receive information via police radio; communicate with and relay orders to other officers; perform related duties as assigned; maintain regular attendance. Qualification Guidelines Education: High School Diploma or GED required. College level coursework in Criminal Justice/ Administration of Justice or related field are desirable. Licenses And Certificates: Must possess and maintain a valid Class “C” California Driver’s License as a condition of employment. Pursuant to Penal Code section 832.4, as a condition of employment, all permanent, non-probationary police officers must possess and maintain a valid and current California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) Basic certificate. Ineligibility or decertification from P.O.S.T. will automatically make a person in this position ineligible to serve in the capacity of a peace officer. Police Officers must possess a valid and current Basic certificate from the P.O.S.T. at the time of hire or obtain a proof of Eligibility (POE) from P.O.S.T. within ten (10) days of hire. Police Officer Pre-Service must either be currently enrolled or have completed a P.O.S.T. certified basic police academy but need not have successfully completed a field training program at the time of hire. Police Officer Pre-Service must possess a valid and current Basic certificate from the P.O.S.T. at the time of hire or obtain a Proof of Eligibility (POE) from P.O.S.T. within ten (10) days of appointment. Police Officer Lateral must be currently employed as a full-time sworn Peace Officer in the State of California from a P.O.S.T. participating agency or department and must possess a valid and current Basic certificate from the P.O.S.T. at the time of hire or obtain a Proof of Eligibility (POE) from P.O.S.T. within ten (10) days of appointment. Knowledge of: Departmental policies, operations and standard procedures; applicable federal, state and local laws, codes and regulations; code principles, law enforcement methods and procedures including patrol, crime prevention and suppression. Business letter writing and other document preparation methods. Ability to: Think and act quickly in emergencies, and judge situations and people accurately. Learn, understand, and interpret laws and regulations. Prepare timely, accurate and grammatically correct written reports. Learn standard broadcasting procedures of a police radio system. Establish and maintain a cooperative working relationship with those contacted in the course of work. Understand and carry out oral and written instructions. Observe accurately and remember faces, numbers, incidents, and places. Use and care of firearms. Work in physically confrontational and emotionally charged situations. Respond to emergencies. Read maps and legal documents, interpret abstract and concrete variables. Communicate before groups with poise and voice control. Apply logic/data to define problems and draw conclusions. Apply own rationale to solve problems, work within set standards and communicate clearly. Special Qualifications: Must be at least 21 years of age at the time of appointment. Must meet all of the following requirements: 1.) Be legally authorized to work in the United States by federal law; 2.) Be fingerprinted for the purposes of search of local, state, and national fingerprint files to disclose any criminal record; 3.) Of good moral character, as determined by a thorough background investigation; and 4.) Be found to be free from any physical, emotional, or mental condition, including bias against race or ethnicity, gender, nationality, religion, disability, or sexual orientation, which might adversely affect the exercise of the powers of a peace officer. Must have no felony convictions and/or convictions which would restrict the ability to possess a firearm. Bilingual skills are highly desirable. Licenses and Certificates Possession of and ability to maintain a valid Class “C” California Driver’s License. MEDICAL STANDARDS: Applicants must be in good physical condition as determined by a medical examination, with weight in proportion to height, and consistent with P.O.S.T. guidelines for hearing and vision. PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Ability to lift up to 150 pounds is required. Position requires prolonged sitting, standing, walking, running, jumping; reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, squatting, and stooping in the performance of daily office activities. The position also requires the ability to get from one location to another in the course of doing business; grasping, repetitive hand movement, and fine coordination in retrieving and entering data using a computer keyboard. Additionally, the position requires near and far vision in reading work related documents and using the computer, and the ability to distinguish colors and acute hearing when providing phone and personal service; drive motorized vehicles; and operate a variety of law enforcement equipment. WORK ENVIRONMENT: Work is performed in a standard office setting and outside in sometimes tense, uncertain, and rapidly evolving circumstances. Employee may travel to different locations and may be exposed to inclement weather conditions, noise, vibration, dust, or potentially hazardous chemicals. Noise level in the work environment is usually high and the employee may be exposed to loud talking and frequent interruptions from telephones, City staff, and/or members of the public. The nature of the work also requires incumbents to drive motorized vehicles and work in heavy vehicle traffic conditions. NOTE: The duties, skills, and demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. When appropriate, reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with a disability to perform the essential functions of the position. A person holding this position is considered a “mandated reporter” under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with this obligation as a condition of employment.

Alhambra, California
$109,041.72 - $139,167.84 Annually
Law-Enforcement and Policing
about 11 hours ago
Apply