Defensive Tactics

One of Ottumwa's police officers teaches a law enforcement class at our local community college. One night a year, the class focuses on defensive tactics. David was asked to be a guest instructor for the course and I asked if I could come along (I wanted to see him in action, both in the teaching role and seeing him spar with the students). I was able to record David sparring with a female student. The students were instructed to block David’s right hook and then punch him. David was instructed to continuously punch the student during the scenario (because most fights don't end with just one punch).

I took the opportunity to test my fighting skills against David and his fellow officer Caleb. It was fun, but I’m bruised (let’s just say the “pads” they wore were not very soft lol)

After each of the students had a chance to “take on” both officers, the second portion of the class focused on scenario training. Thankfully I’m not shy, because I was pulled out of the audience and used as an actress in the scenarios. In total, David, Caleb and I acted out about 25 scenarios and two students at a time would be cops that were called to the scene. The student “cops” did not know what they were walking into, beyond the brief description “dispatch” gave to them. David, Caleb and I would cooperate if the officers did well in commanding the situation. However, if the officers did not take control of the situation or acted too aggressive, we would not be compliant.

The scenarios we acted out ranged from noise complaints; to domestic assaults; to a wanted murderer; and public intoxication. I had a great time playing up my characters and David impressed my socks off during the “recaps.” After each scenario, he would ask the student “cops” what they did correctly and incorrectly. After they answered, David would teach the class the proper procedure/strategy behind handling the “call” in a safer, more effective manner.

David was remarkable in his talent for explaining how to handle the “call” in the proper way and why. He also held the students’ attention and really had command over the room. I was so proud!

Caleb, David and I had a great time helping with the class-- Even though we all let bruised and sore haha.