2024 Austin Police Department Field Training Program PDF

Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual 2024 Page 1 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024 FORWARD……………...

Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual 2024 Page 1 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024 FORWARD……………………………………………………………………………………3 BEST PRACTICES IN FIELD TRAINING…………………………………………………3 TCOLE STANDARDS……………………………………………………………………….4 AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT’S FIELD TRAINING PROGRAM…………………...4 STATEMENT OF PURPOSE……………………………………………………………….4 ORGANIZATION AND STAFFING…………………………………………………………4 UTILIZATION AND DEPLOYMENT………………………………………………….…….5 GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND PERFORMANCE MEASURES…………………………..5 PERSONNEL DUTIES, AUTHORITY AND RESPONSIBILITIES………………………6 PERSONNEL SELECTION PROCEDURES……………………………………………..11 TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT…………………………………………………………19 ANNUAL INSPECTION……………………………………………………………………..20 RECORDS MANAGEMENT AND SPECIAL REPORTING……………………………..20 REPORTING AND DOCUMENTATION…………………………………………………...20 COLLECTION AND PRESERVATION OF EVIDENCE………………………………….26 EQUIPMENT/VEHICLE OPERATION AND CONTROL…………………………………26 GLOSSARY…………………………………………………………………………….…….26 ASSIGNMENTS……………………………………………………………………………...28 PROGRAM GUIDELINES…………………………………………………………………..30 PHASE GUIDELINES……………………………………………………………………….35 NEIGHBORHOOD PORTFOLIO EXERCISE…………………………………………….37 EMPLOYEE SUCCESS PLAN……………………………………………………………..39 BOARD OF EVALUATORS…………………………………………………………………40 FTP REVIEW PROCESS……………………………………………………………….…..42 RESOURCES…………………………………………………………………….…………..43 CONTINUITY OF OPERATIONS PLAN (COOP)……………………………..………….43 APPROVAL…………….……………………………………………………………………..45 Page 2 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024  Foreword The purpose of the Austin Police Department Field Training Program is to provide a standardized program to guide recruit police officers and lateral experienced officers joining the Austin Police Department, and Field Training Officers (FTOs) in the initial orientation and field training of newly assigned patrol officers. The program is designed to assist these officers in making the transition from what they learned in the academy and during any prior police experience to performing general law enforcement patrol duties competently in the field with the Austin Police Department. This Field Training Program manual has been developed to provide the members of the Field Train Program with a reference guide to assist him/her in carrying out his/her duties and responsibilities in the program. If there is a desired clarification or a further explanation of any information or material contained herein, please contact the Field Training Program Coordinator. Best Practices in Field Training Formal field training for police academy graduates was developed within the police field in the 1970s. Today, it is considered a necessary step between academy training and new officers being ready to perform effectively on their own. History of Field Training – The San Jose and Reno Models The San Jose Police Department in California is credited with initially developing formal field training in the 1970s. The model was based on two key ingredients: 1. Carefully selected and trained Field Training Officers (FTOs) to whom academy graduates are assigned. 2. A systematic process for evaluating whether trainees can perform patrol officers’ duties successfully, in the field. The San Jose Model incorporated standard evaluation guidelines (SEGs), specific categories of performance, checklists, and rating scales. To complete field training, trainees had to demonstrate satisfactory performance in every category. In the early 2000s several police departments began developing a variation of the San Jose Model that placed more emphasis on adult learning, problem-based learning, coaching, and mentoring. One reason for this was that training in the police academy was beginning to shift more toward adult-learning techniques, so field training methods needed to adjust as well. In addition, agencies were trying to implement community policing and problem-oriented policing and were recognizing that these approaches to police work needed stronger attention in field training. A leading agency in developing this model was the Reno Police Department in Nevada. Page 3 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024  Texas Field Training Program Standards (TCOLE 3702) The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requires that all FTOs attend the Field Training Officer course (3702). The required course is to be a minimum of 24 hours that is designed to provide training guidance and training aspects to future Field Training Officers in law enforcement. The Austin Police Department’s Field Training Program The Austin Police Department’s Field Training Program is a Fifteen (15) month educational and evaluative program that is a continuation of the officer recruit selection and APD Academy training process or the Returning to Officer Program. It is a hybrid of training philosophies derived from the San Jose and Reno Models. The pillars that uphold the integrity of the FTP are: Clear operational guidelines, Strict adherence to the selection process for Field Training Officers (FTOs), and Up-to-date training. Following standardized training phases, PPOs are expected to perform police duties under the guidance of an FTO, a patrol sergeant, and a patrol lieutenant. The one-on- one exchange with the Chain of Command provides supervised participative instruction to PPOs. This helps bridge the gap between the knowledge and skills learned in a classroom setting and the proper application in field situations by Department policy. Purpose Vision - To build the finest police officers in the nation by pairing Officers enrolled in the Field Training Program with the most elite group of trainers in the Department. Motto - “We Build and Educate the Finest Police Officers in the Nation.” Mission – To support and evaluate a diverse group of dedicated, professional field training officers in training new officers, who will provide superior police services to Austin’s diverse community. Culture Commitment - Demonstrate the Department’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as building trust between the community and the Department. Organization and Staffing The Department undergoes periodic evaluation to ensure it is organized in such a way that it meets the changing needs of the Austin community. This evaluation may result in changes, over time, to redistribute resources to optimally address contemporary issues and conditions. APD-HR will maintain personnel allocation information. The Field Training Program (FTP) is staffed by: Probationary Police Officers (PPOs), Field Training Officers (FTOs), Page 4 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024  Corporals, Patrol Sergeants, Patrol Lieutenants, Field Training Lieutenants, Patrol Commanders, Field Training Program Director (Training Commander), Field Training Program Manager (Learned Skills Lieutenant), Field Training Program Coordinator, Field Training Unit Corporal, Instructor/Counselors Utilization and Deployment The Department has authorized 152 Field Training Officers (FTOs) that will be distributed across eight patrol Sectors as follows: 19 FTOs per Patrol Sector (excluding DTAC), A maximum of 4 FTOs on day shifts o If the sector has vacancies that are not filled on the evening shifts or night shifts, there will be no maximum on the day shifts. o When FTO positions can be filled by the evening shifts and night shifts, the stipend(s) (over the allotted 4) will be moved from the day shift and returned to the evening and night shifts. Goals, Objectives, and Performance Measures Department goals and performance measures are published by the City of Austin. Periodic reports will be made to the Chief, City Manager and City Council as required. In addition to above, the Training Academy has added the following goals: Recruit and select the best role models to become an FTO. Train the PPOs to translate classroom instruction into skillful application in the field in accordance with the City of Austin (COA) and APD Policies and Procedures. Train the PPOs to research, access and use all available resources (i.e., Specialized Units, Training, Victims Services, Software Programs, State of Texas, COA, and Other Agencies) toward solving problems while performing policing duties. Encourage PPOs to use innovative community policing strategies such as the SARA Model or other problem-oriented methods to co-produce public safety solutions with all segments of Austin’s diverse community. Provide current training for the Field Training Program (FTP). Continually evaluate the FTP to ensure program effectiveness and integrity. Page 5 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024  Ensure the FTP and FTOs instill in each PPO the importance of community- oriented policing and demonstrate a commitment toward the philosophy of community policing. Personnel Duties, Authority and Responsibilities Probationary Police Officer (PPO) –will be able to deliver high-quality police services as a solo, uniformed patrol officer by the end of the program. Their interactions with the Austin community will reflect the APD’s commitment to providing fair and equitable police services to all segments of Austin’s diverse community. PPOs will uphold an inclusive and equitable culture within the department and with the community they serve. The PPO’s primary responsibility while assigned to the field training program is to devote their full attention and efforts toward successfully completing the program. This may be a very intense and stressful time and PPOs must give their best effort each moment they are assigned to the program. PPOs must accept accountability for learning as it applies to the job and take an active role in the learning process. A PPO is responsible for: 1. Reviewing and signing each report (i.e., Checklist, DOR, Weekly, Monthly etc.) immediately after the review and notifying the Supervisor immediately if a report fails to be completed and is not available for a signature 2. Maintaining a copy of work activity to be used during the BOE. Call activity will include the offense number, call type, address, time, date, and notes, 3. Completing assignments in a prompt, timely manner and following all policy and procedures as outlined in the department manuals, 4. Submitting copies of evaluations to the APD Veterans Liaison if they are a Military Veteran receiving VA benefits, and 5. Participating in the FTP anonymous survey immediately after the BOE if released to solo phase or upon completion of the program if a Returning Officer. If a PPO believes that a specific order is improper, or an evaluation is not fair, they should discuss it with the FTO. If the PPO is still unable to resolve the issue, the PPO should meet with the patrol sergeant who will refer the matter to the FT Lieutenant and FT Coordinator. Regardless of the issue, PPO will sign completed evaluations and if the issue is not resolved may indicate their objection in the comments section relating to the rating PRIOR to signing. Field Training Officers - FTOs are considered role models whose performance and conduct are expected to be worthy of emulation. Ethics, professionalism, relationships with the community, quality of citizen contacts, and commitment to the APD Mission and Vision shall be primary criteria in the selection of FTOs.” Refer to FTO Qualifications for additional information. Page 6 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024 Corporals - Corporals will perform all the FTP duties of a Patrol Sergeant ONLY WHEN assigned as an acting Sergeant. Corporals are responsible for overseeing the Neighborhood Portfolio Exercise assigned to a PPO during solo phase. Patrol Sergeants - The Patrol Sergeant in the PPO’s and FTOs chain of command is responsible for: 1. The daily training and evaluation of the activities of the FTO and PPO, 2. Verifying FTOs perform their responsibilities (e.g. informal conversations, BWC/DMAV review, etc.), 3. Interacting with the Austin community in a manner that will reflect the APD’s commitment to providing fair and equitable police services to all segments of Austin’s diverse community. Sergeants will demonstrate and will uphold an inclusive and equitable culture within the department and with the community they serve. 4. Assigning PPO to ride with an FTO, 5. Ensuring the checklist is completed and signed by the FTO and PPO during the ride-out period, 6. Ensuring a DOR is completed and signed by the FTO and PPO for every training day with an FTO, 7. Reviewing and signing the PPOs DORs each work week, 8. Meeting with the FTO and PPO at the end of each work week to review the performance of a PPO (this meeting can be conducted separately or together), 9. Completing and signing a Weekly Report each work week a PPO is assigned to an FTO (i.e., ride-out, training days and/or review), 10. Completing and signing a Monthly Report each month a PPO is in solo phase, 11. Forming and monitoring employee success plans for PPO’s performance deficiencies, 12. Emailing the FTP Coordinator with any PPO’s change in a location, assignment, or status, 13. Each January, reviewing the records of FTOs assigned to ensure they still meet the program requirements and immediately send discrepancies found to the FTP Coordinator, 14. Scheduling personnel to participate in FTP role-play and evaluation exercises by entering the information on the SharePoint schedule, as directed by the FT Lieutenant no later than 2 weeks before the scheduled role-play, 15. Reviewing the FTP assignment schedule posted on SharePoint to verify that an FTO is available during the scheduled assignment and all information is completed and correct, Page 7 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024  16. Reviewing PPO’s police reports, street checks, follow-ups, and supplements for compliance with Department policy in Versadex through the Academy Training Cadet Queue (HTRAIN) and removing this documentation from the queue after the review/approval, 17. Monitoring FTOs’ status and notifying the FTP Coordinator of changes and/or updates (i.e., light duty, admin leave, transfers etc.), and 18. Providing the PPO, a psychologically safe environment to report any concerns, inequities, or policy violations without fear of retaliation, 19. Attending the FTP Overview class. Patrol Lieutenants - The Patrol Lieutenant in the PPO’s, FTOs, and Sergeant’s chain of command is responsible for: 1. The training and evaluation of the activities of the PPO, FTO and Patrol Sergeant, 2. Verifying Patrol Sergeants perform their responsibilities, 3. Interacting with the Austin community in a manner that will reflect the APD’s commitment to providing fair and equitable police services to all segments of Austin’s diverse community. Patrol Lieutenants will demonstrate and will uphold an inclusive and equitable culture within the department and with the community they serve. 4. Communicating with and assisting the FT Lieutenant with required tasks, 5. Assisting the Patrol Sergeant in forming an Employee Success Plan for PPOs with performance deficiencies, 6. Reviewing and approving PPO’s Employee Success Plans, and then submitting to the FT Lieutenant and the Field Training Coordinator, 7. Reviewing and signing the Patrol Sergeant’s weekly and monthly PPO reviews and emailing the most recent copy of the report to the Assistant Chief of Police, the Patrol Commander, and the FT Lieutenant in the PPO’s chain of command, 8. Auditing PPO’s records for completeness (a report is not considered “completed” unless it has been signed), and 9. Serving as chairperson on Boards of Evaluators (BOE). Field Training Lieutenants - The FT Lieutenant is assigned by the Patrol Commander to represent a specific Sector in their command. The FT Lieutenant is responsible for: 1. Monitoring and coordinating the training activities of PPOs within their Sector to include: a. Coordinating PPO’s specific FTP assignments, b. Providing PPOs notice of schedule changes within Department Guidelines, c. Maintaining on SharePoint, the PPO’s training assignments to include supervisor, workdays/hours and work assignment, and d. Prior to transferring a PPO to another shift, verifying PPO records are current. Page 8 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024  2. Ensuring FTOs, Patrol Sergeants, and Patrol Lieutenants perform all their responsibilities, 3. Scheduling personnel to participate in FTP role-play and evaluation exercises by entering the information into the SharePoint schedule no later than 2 weeks before the scheduled role-play, 4. Interacting with the Austin community in a manner that will reflect the APD’s commitment to providing fair and equitable police services to all segments of Austin’s diverse community. FT Lieutenants will demonstrate and will uphold an inclusive and equitable culture within the department and with the community they serve. 5. Assisting the Patrol Sergeant and Patrol Lieutenant in forming an Employee Success Plan for PPOs with performance deficiencies, 6. Updating the Patrol Commander on the training progress of PPOs, 7. Ensuring enough FTOs are available to train PPOs by coordinating with Patrol Commanders, making shift changes, temporarily reassigning PPOs and/or FTOs, as necessary, 8. Keeping the FTO SharePoint distribution list current by notifying the FTP Coordinator when changes are needed, 9. Verifying Patrol Sergeants have conducted the January yearly qualifications audit and that FTOs assigned still meet the qualifications, 10. Immediately sending an email to the FTP Coordinator when an FTO is transferred, removed, or reinstated as an FTO, 11. Completing and submitting Civil Service retention reports, and 12. Attending the FTP Overview class. Patrol Commanders - The Patrol Commander is the primary executor of the FTP in the PPO’s chain of command. The Patrol Commander is responsible for: 1. Interacting with the Austin community in a manner that will reflect the APD’s commitment to providing fair and equitable police services to all segments of Austin’s diverse community. Patrol Commanders will demonstrate and will uphold an inclusive and equitable culture within the department and with the community they serve. 2. Assigning a Lieutenant within their chain of command to be the FT Lieutenant for either their Region and/or a specific Sector, 3. The training and evaluation activities of the FT Lieutenants, Patrol Lieutenants, Patrol Sergeant and FTOs within their respective division, 4. Ensuring FT Lieutenants, Patrol Lieutenants, Patrol Sergeants and FTOs perform their responsibilities, 5. Reviewing the training progress of PPOs and ensuring the Patrol Lieutenants submit a copy of the current weekly/monthly to the Assistant Chief in the PPO’s chain of command, 6. Ensuring adequate numbers of FTOs are distributed throughout the Sector, 7. Ensuring Civil Service retention reports are completed by the FT Lieutenant, Page 9 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024  8. Ensuring the FT Lieutenants immediately send an email to the FTP Coordinator when an FTO is transferred, removed, or reinstated as an FTO, 9. Reviewing requests for termination of a PPO’s employment, and 10. Submitting and/or initiating requests for termination of a PPO’s employment to the appropriate Assistant Chief of Police, after meeting/coordinating with the Training Commander. Field Training Program Director - The Field Training Program Director is the Training Commander. The FTP Director is responsible for: 1. The overall management of the FTP program, 2. The overall monitoring and coordinating of the training activities of PPOs. Field Training Program Manager – The Field Training Program Manager is the Learned Skills Lieutenant. The FTP Manager is responsible for: 1. The overall management of the FTP program, 2. Compiling and submitting a list of PPOs that have been recommended by the Patrol Commanders for Civil Service Retention to the Chief of Police and FTP Director, 3. The overall monitoring and coordinating of the training activities of PPOs Field Training Program Coordinator - The FTP Coordinator is a Sergeant assigned to the Training Division Field Training Unit. The FTP Coordinator is responsible for: 1. Maintaining overall administrative control of the FTP operations and projects, 2. Monitoring the deployment of FTOs among the Regions to ensure appropriate staffing levels, 3. Researching, updating, and developing training courses that introduce contemporary topics (as they relate to the FTP), 4. Ensuring an adequate number of basic training schools are available, based upon FTO vacancies, 5. Ensuring an adequate number of FTO re-certification training sessions are available for all FTOs, 6. Designing and providing instruction curricula associated with any compulsory training for purpose of helping FTOs become better teachers, coaches, leaders, and mentors, 7. Providing FTP training sessions to newly promoted Corporals and Sergeants during Supervisor Schools, 8. Providing a detailed FTP training course for Patrol Supervisors, Managers and Commanders, 9. Updating APD Human Resource when FTOs leave the program and are no longer authorized to receive an FTO pay stipend, 10. Advising members of the FTP on training, evaluation techniques and procedures, 11. Assisting members of the FTP in forming employee success plans, 12. Inspecting completed training records and evaluations for PPOs at the end of each training phase, Page 10 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024  13. Immediately reporting to the FT Manager and the FT Director any non- compliance with the FTP, 14. Maintaining fiscal responsibility of funds allocated for the FTP in accordance with APD Policy, 15. Ensuring up-to-date information is disseminated to all members of the FTP, 16. Ensuring all forms relating to the FTP and the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) is updated annually in accordance with APD policy, 17. Maintaining and archiving FTP files in accordance with the Department’s Control Schedule and APD Policy, 18. Updating the FT Manager with a PPO’s progress, 19. Auditing PPO’s records and reporting any missing, incomplete, or past due reports to the FT Lieutenant for correction, 20. Assigning a technology liaison to communicate with CTM and any FTO software vendor for the purpose of maintaining and troubleshooting FTP software, 21. Maintaining a current list of qualified FTOs on SharePoint and reporting staffing changes within the FTP, 22. Updating user accounts and permissions for FTP Software, 23. Conducting FTP training sessions, 24. Coordinating with ICs to determine number of actors needed for role-play training and evaluation exercises and posting needed vacancies on SharePoint for the FT Lieutenants to schedule in a timely manner, 25. Ensuring the FT Lieutenants schedule an adequate number of personnel using the 75% FTO ration guideline (as set forth by City Legal) to assist with the role-play training and evaluation exercises by periodically reviewing the posted schedule, 26. Calculating a PPO’s probationary date, and 27. Administrating the FTP Survey and providing the results to the FTP Manager. Field Training Unit Corporal - The FTU Corporal is a Corporal assigned to the Training Division Field Training Unit. The FTU Corporal is responsible for: 1. Assisting the FTP Coordinator with their duties as directed Instructor/Counselor - The ICs are Senior Police Officers assigned to the Training Academy, Cadet Unit. The ICs are responsible for: 1. FTOs questions regarding training and curriculum issues. 2. Responsible for maintaining a list of actors that participated in role-play. Personnel Selection Procedure Field Training Program Coordinator: is selected by the Field Training Manager with the approval of FTP Director. The Selection will follow G.O. 918 Promotion, Transfer, and Vacancy Guidelines for Sworn Employees. The following Page 11 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024  considerations will also be used in the selection process: work experience, interpersonal skills, and general reputation as a supervisor in addition to the applicant’s oral board. Candidates that have any sustained disciplinary action against them for excessive force, unlawful arrest, false testimony, racial, ethnic, sexual-orientation or gender-based discrimination or slurs, or other serious examples of police misconduct, shall be barred from the hiring process. Field Training Unit Corporal: will be selected by The Field Training Program Coordinator with the approval of the FTP Manager and FTP Director, using G.O. 918 Promotion, Transfer, and Vacancy Guidelines for Sworn Employees. The FTU Corporal will also be selected using criteria established by the Learned Skills – Defensive Tactics Unit. Field Training Officer (FTO): is an experienced Patrol Officer who is responsible for the training and evaluation of Probationary Police Officers. When selecting FTO candidates, only those that demonstrate a commitment to community policing and problem-solving shall be given strong consideration. In addition, FTO candidates must depict leadership, professionalism, ethical behavior, have good working relationships with the community, and a history of commitment to APD’s Mission and Vision. An effective FTO can operate with empathy, respect, ethics, and show a commitment to cultivating new officers. They must possess the following personal qualities: a. FTOs must be effective communicators, who understand their audience and implement adult learning principles. They must utilize active listening skills, speak clearly and concisely, and remain calm in all situations. b. Ethical behavior is the cornerstone to law enforcement, and FTOs must always instill and demonstrate this. This includes promoting good character and displaying professional values while at the same time guiding others toward good decision-making. Demonstration occurs through compliance with APD policy and procedures as well as the implementation of constitutional- based and bias-free policing. c. Professionalism is key to a successful Department; therefore, FTOs must commit to strong working relationships with FTP personnel. This includes maintaining a professional appearance and demeanor along with a strong, positive history of community engagement, positive interactions, and collaboration. FTOs must maintain a working knowledge of current laws and APD policy and demonstrate it through application. d. Experienced FTO’s provide a needed element to a PPO’s success. They need to exhibit proficiency in a variety of situations regarding APD operations as well as demonstrate a willingness to develop themselves and the PPO professionally. Page 12 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024  e. They need to display humility when asking questions while knowing where to find answers. They must openly display a clear commitment to professional education. f. FTOs must always be fair and objective and provide an environment that is conducive to learning. They must possess the ability to modify instruction to the PPO’s learning style to achieve maximum success. They must establish and communicate clear goals and expectations while providing immediate feedback to the PPO regarding performance. g. FTOs must be committed to the PPO’s development into a solo patrol officer; therefore, they must understand the required effort as well as the vicarious liability incurred. This includes accepting responsibility for teaching and training officers in a real-world environment and taking on the responsibility as a supervisor over the PPO. h. Any deviation from the department’s direction, or any actions or bias that negatively impacts the FTP may result in the immediate removal of FTO status and responsibilities. The FTO is responsible for: 1. Acting as a role model for PPOs by exhibiting integrity, honesty, and ethical behavior. This is defined as one who: a. Exhibits professionalism and high personal standards. b. Symbolizes and demonstrates leadership through instruction and discipline. c. FTO interactions with the Austin community will reflect the APD’s commitment to providing fair and equitable police services to all segments of Austin’s diverse community. FTO’s will demonstrate and will uphold an inclusive and equitable culture within the department and with the community they serve. d. Illustrates social consciousness and compassion when collaborating with diverse populations. e. Works with community members to solve problems in their district. f. Is committed to community-oriented policing and problem solving. 2. Performing as a teacher and mentor, who: a. Teaches, instructs, and trains in a respectable and professional manner, b. Does not use the PPO for their own benefit, c. Holds the PPO accountable to taking an active role in their own learning, d. Provides positive reinforcement regarding a PPO’s performance, e. Understands the need to modify training to fit the learning style of the PPO, f. Utilizes adult learning principles during the training process, g. Continually reminds PPOs of their commitment to train and provides encouragement to be successful, Page 13 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024  h. Guides PPO, when necessary, i. Keeps supervisors informed of the PPO’s progress. 3. Functioning as an evaluator and counselor, who: a. Maintains objectivity when evaluating a PPO’s performance. b. Provides effective and constructive feedback on both strengths and weaknesses. c. Provides PPOs the opportunity to learn through experience while providing helpful guidance. d. Ensures the Field Training Program Coordinator remains aware of a PPO’s development, whether positive or negative e. Makes decisions during training as needed. 4. Must be a leader and supervisor, who, a. Understands liability and uses it to professionally develop PPOs. b. Establishes clear expectations and holds recruits accountable. c. Illustrates a commitment to change that benefits officers and the community. d. Consistently mirrors ethical behavior. e. Provides the PPO with first line supervision. f. Specifies PPO goals and provides oversite. 5. Adhering to program guidelines in terms of policies and confidentiality while maintaining a positive attitude toward the Department, the FTP, the job, and the PPO. 6. Guiding PPOs through the learning experience, 7. The adjunct training and evaluation of PPOs, 8. Adhering to all COA and APD Policies, Patrol and FTP SOPs as well as the fundamentals of Community Oriented Policing, the Problem-Solving Process, and application of the basic mechanics of police functions, 9. Exercising accountability and control over the actions and conduct of PPOs during a scheduled shift, to include making responsible decisions governing the immediate actions and participation of PPOs while engaging in normal police activities, 10. Participating in meetings each work week with the Patrol Sergeant to review a PPO’s performance, 11. Completing FTP reports by designated deadlines, 12. Notifying the Patrol Sergeant of all violations of COA and APD Policies or other performance deficiencies committed by PPOs, 13. Successfully completing the APD FTO Advanced Course and/or any other courses mandated by the FTP each calendar year, 14. Teaching and assisting with courses when requested by the FTP, 15. Monitoring the role-play assignment schedule posted on SharePoint and participating in the training and evaluation for cadets and other APD personnel when scheduled, 16. Notifying the Cadet Sergeant and supervisor if unable to attend role-play and/or if they will be late, and Page 14 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024  17. Training a PPO at least one week, each calendar year. This may require the FTO to request a temporary move to another shift if not assigned a PPO. FTOs will coordinate this with their supervisor, and the Patrol FT Lieutenant may substitute one week of role-play or FTP instruction for this mandate. Qualifications: Officers must meet and maintain the following requirements prior to the FTO Basic School start date: 1. Be a volunteer and possess a personal desire to serve as an FTO, 2. Demonstrate an operational understanding of APD Policy and Patrol Standard Operating Procedures, 3. Be assigned to a Patrol Sector as a uniformed first responder (excluding George sector), 4. Officers must complete a minimum of 24 months continuous service as an Austin Police Department commissioned peace officer on patrol, except as stated in section 4.b. below. a. If placed on light duty for 90 days or more, within the 24-month time frame, the eligibility time will be extended equal to the number of days accrued after reaching the 90-day threshold (i.e., if you are on light duty for 180 days, you will be extended only 90 days). b. Officers from a Transitional Officer Program (Modified Class) or those with a minimum of 2 years prior law enforcement experience from an accredited law enforcement agency, as set out by recruiting standards, may qualify as an FTO after 18 months continuous time (completed the probation requirement) as an Austin Police Department commissioned peace officer on patrol. 5. Have attendance records that reflect no abuse of sick leave or used more than 160 hours in a calendar year, 6. Pass a 50-question written entry test with a minimum score of 90%, 7. Have no sustained violation(s) resulting in a suspension of 2 days or more within the previous 24 months from actions other than from (this will be handled through the chain of command on a case-by-case basis): a. Crashes, or b. First time MVR violations deemed unintentional. 8. Have no sustained violation(s) resulting in a suspension of 4 days or more within the previous 36 months from actions other than crashes (this will be handled through the chain of command on a case-by-case basis), 9. Have no more than 2 negligent collisions within the previous 24 months, 10. No Internal Affairs records of sustained violations that reflect any form of unethical misconduct, 11. Having excessive numbers of sustained and/or not sustained complaints, or excessive numbers of use-of-force incidents shall disqualify a candidate from the FTO program. 12. There is an FTO stipend and vacancy for the sector they are assigned to, and Page 15 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024  13. Officers, who are the focus of an active Internal Affairs investigation that if sustained would disqualify them from being an FTO, may attend the school and/or remain an active FTO until determination of the allegation; however, they will not be assigned a PPO until there is a final determination. Entry Test: The entry test is the first step in the FTO application process and is administered electronically through a learning management system. Entry Exam requirements: 1. Access to the entry test is granted by the FTP Coordinator. 2. The entry test will be comprised of the latest version of APD Policy, Patrol SOPs, and current law, 3. Applicants will be given a minimum of 2 hours to complete the 50-question, open book test with a minimum score of 90%, 4. If the applicant fails the entry test, they will be given 1 opportunity to retake the written test, and 5. If the applicant fails the second subsequent test, the applicant shall not be allowed to apply to the program for a six (6) month period, beginning from the date of the second failed test. Application: Upon successful completion of the entry test, FTO applicants will complete the FTO application located on the FTP SharePoint Website and provide the FTO Applicant Packet to their Sergeant. 1. As part of the application process, sergeants are required to send five (5) peer evaluations to officers on the applicant’s shift, excluding the corporal. 2. Four (4) officers on surrounding shifts in the same Sector will be randomly selected by the Field Training Lieutenant to complete confidential peer evaluations via a survey link. The FTP will collect, analyze, and share results with the applicant’s chain of command. Supervisors will NOT forward applications to the lieutenant until the FTP completes analysis and forwards the results to the applicant’s direct supervisor. 3. Completed applications will be placed in the FTO group folder located at G:\FTO Unit, no later than 2 weeks prior to the start of the FTO Basic School. 4. Patrol sergeants will send an email to FTP Coordinator when the application is complete and ready for review. Selection Procedures: Each level in the FTO applicant’s chain of command is responsible for the selection and approval of the FTO applicant. The Patrol Commander is responsible for the final selection of the FTO applicant in their Region. FTO applicant packets received within the deadline by the Training Division will be reviewed for completeness and vacancy availability. Incomplete or applications received outside of the deadline will not be considered, and the applicant’s supervisor will be notified. Selection Considerations: While reviewing the FTO applicant’s packet, the applicant’s chain of command should consider the following: Page 16 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024  1. Whether or not the applicant possesses the minimum qualifications, 2. The applicant’s Internal Affairs record and potential for future sustained violations, 3. Whether or not the applicant’s offense and crash reports are completed electronically and contain the following: a. Completeness and attention to detail, b. Correct grammar and logical sequencing, and c. References and adherences to APD Policy and Patrol SOP. 4. Whether or not the applicant possesses the unique qualities needed to instruct and evaluate assigned PPOs to include, but not limited to: a. Leadership traits, self-awareness, history of constant self-improvement, emotional maturity, impartiality/objectivity, assertiveness, ability to constructively critique, neat appearance, resourcefulness, sound safety practices, physical fitness, and overall respect from peers. Assignment Pay: Officers who successfully complete the FTO school and maintain those qualifications, will be authorized to receive the FTA pay stipend, except when the shift they are assigned has exceeded its allotment of FTO positions. Eligibility: If in the event there are more approved FTO applicants than the total number of authorized FTO positions, the FT Lieutenant will determine who will be authorized entrance into the FTO School for their region based on the following: 1. Current and/or anticipated FTO shift vacancies, and 2. Date the application was submitted. 3. Tie breakers (choose the most eligible based on the higher standard): a. Date of commission, b. Overall, Cadet Class academic score, c. Original APD appointment time, and if necessary, an d. Any breaks in tenure (suspensions, previous resignations, etc.). Relationships with PPOs: FT Unit members will not engage in any sexual conduct with a PPO. If an FT Unit Member and a PPO develop a friendship that is likely to involve sexual conduct, both the FT Unit Member and the PPO are responsible for reporting the relationship to the next level supervisor and arranging a transfer before engaging in any sexual conduct. Refer to G.O. 900 General Conduct and Responsibilities for additional guidance on standards of professionalism. Removal from Program - FTOs will be removed from the FTP, when necessary, to ensure the positive effectiveness and overall integrity of the FTP. The FTOs chain of command will immediately notify the FTP Coordinator any time an FTO is removed or suspended from the FT Unit. FTOs will immediately be removed from the program for the following reasons: 1. Failure to meet and maintain the FTO Qualifications 2. Failure to attend mandatory training, Page 17 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024  3. Engaging in any sexual conduct with a PPO, 4. Absence from duties as a uniformed patrol officer (i.e., assignment to non-patrol, leave, light duty, etc.) for a period of 90 days or more, 5. At the request of any person, submitted electronically to the FTOs FT Lieutenant and/or the FTP Coordinator, if cause is shown that it would be in the best interest of the Department or the FTP, and 6. Is demonstrating a pattern of offenses, situations, complaints, low productivity, absenteeism, attitude, or other factors which leads the FTOs chain of command, or the Training Division to reasonably conclude or believe the officer does not possess the overall characteristics required of an FTO. 7. At the request of the FTO, through the submittal of a resignation email to their FT Lieutenant. The FT Lieutenant, after consultation with the FTP Coordinator, may decide whether to immediately deny or accept the request. The following WILL be considered for the immediate denial of the request: a. The request comes within 2 months of a Police Academy class graduation. b. A cadet class is currently in Phase Training, i.e., ride out period. c. If it is not in the best interest of the Department. d. If denied, the FT Lieutenant will respond with a detailed reason for the denial and provide an expected release date, e. Once the resignation is accepted, the FT Lieutenant will submit the removal email to the FTP Coordinator and the FTOs Commander. Reinstatement - With the written approval of the Patrol Commander, the following former FTOs may be reinstated into the FT Unit provided their removal was less than 1 calendar year, and they meet FTO qualifications, and they: 1. Voluntarily resigned, 2. Were assigned to non-patrol/non-uniformed duties for a period of 90 days or more, 3. Returned from Light Duty Status for a period 90 days or more, and 4. Originally declined to transfer to another shift and now willing to accept the transfer due to a shortage of FTOs. 5. Failed to meet mandatory training requirements but have: a. Completed the missed training (or portions deemed necessary by the FTP Coordinator), b. Have waited 6 months after the initial date of removal. c. The FTO bears the responsibility to coordinate and schedule missed training with instructors. 6. The request to be reinstated will be submitted electronically to the Patrol Commander for review. If approved, they will forward it to the FTP Coordinator. The FTO will attach the following to the request: a. Record of Internal Affairs, b. Record of driving, c. Record of attendance for FTO Advanced training for the calendar year Page 18 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024  7. Indication from FT LT that a vacancy exists for the shift currently assigned. Former FTOs removed from the FTP for more than 1 calendar year may reapply to the program as an FTO applicant. 8. The following will occur when an FTO transfers to a different shift within the same Sector. a. If there is an FTO vacancy on the shift receiving the FTO, then the officer may retain their FTO status. Returning Officer (FTO) from Military Combat Deployment 1. FTOs must successfully complete the following in addition to Reinstatement: a. The Return to Officer Program (ROP) as defined by Return Officer Program in the Continuing Education Unit Standard Operating Procedure prior to training probationary police officers. b. Additionally, the FTO must conduct a follow-up visit with a Staff Psychologist 90 days after completion of the ROP. If the psychologist deems a need for additional services, then the officer’s FTO status will be placed on hold until cleared by the staff psychologist. Training and Development FTOs shall attend all mandatory training that is deemed necessary by the Commander of Training. 1. Mandatory training and refresher topics should include, but are not limited to: a. SFST Update (every even year) b. Skills update (de-escalation, defensive tactics, handcuffing, firearms, etc.), c. Leadership, d. Basic personnel management, e. Communications, f. Procedural justice, legitimacy, and cultural competency g. Adult training techniques The following Training is designated as Mandatory: 1. FTO Advanced Training: FTOs will complete the FTO Advanced Training EACH calendar year. FTOs that complete the APD Basic FTO School are exempt from the FTO Advanced Training for the same calendar year that they complete the school, 2. Reality-Based (role-play) Training. FTOs will participate when scheduled in role- play and adhere to the following: a. Be on time, b. Have no weapons to include in their personnel vehicle if that vehicle is to be used in a role-play scenario (i.e., crash/traffic role-play), c. Be prepared with your police equipment (i.e., handcuffs, flashlight etc.) as you may be called upon to utilize them in a scenario, Page 19 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024  d. Be familiar with the APD Safety Briefing for Reality-Based, Training Exercises posted on SharePoint, e. Be on fully duty status (i.e., no light duty, modified assignment etc.,), and provide a replacement if unable to attend (this will be coordinated with the Patrol Supervisor). Annual Inspection The Field Training Unit will cooperate and assist the Risk Management Unit when conducting annual staff inspections. The purpose of the staff inspection is to compare the Department’s formal expectations with the actual performance of the Field Training Unit to determine if policy and SOPs are being adhered too. Records Management and Special Reporting FTP Documents are considered personnel files and therefore confidential and will not be: 1. Provided to unauthorized individuals or entities absent a valid court order, 2. Reproduced or copied, 3. Reviewed by anyone not responsible for that PPOs training, 4. Discussed, made public, or used to ridicule or embarrass a PPO, or 5. Printed (even if they are YOUR records). FTP records will only be accessed and/or reviewed in accordance with APD Policy and the Open Records Act. The FT Coordinator will maintain and archive all records relating to the FTP in accordance with the regulations established by the Department’s Control Schedule and APD Policy and will follow these guidelines: 1. Records regarding the delivery of training to PPOs shall be retained five years from the date of the employee’s permanent separation from APD, 2. All records that are not related to the delivery of training to PPOs shall be retained, according to the Department Control Schedule, 3. The FTP Coordinator will immediately report any non-compliance with APD FTP Standard Operating Procedure regarding the submission and maintenance of FTP records to the FTP Manager, and 4. Prior to destroying any records, the Training Academy’s Records Liaison and FTP Coordinator will complete the destruction log and then submit a list to the APD Records Manager at [email protected] requesting approval to destroy the records. 5. Acadis and the Field Training group folder are the only approved storage locations for FTP records. REPORTING AND DOCUMENTATION Training documentation is the proof the training was provided and completed within the timelines outlined in the SOP. Page 20 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024 Checklist Report - This represents a list of job-related learning topics or tasks generally not covered during the Police Academy. The FTO will discuss these topics with the PPO by following these guidelines: 1. Completed through Acadis during the first 4 training days. 2. The FTO and PPO will “check off” topics covered EACH day through Acadis. 3. When discussing the learning topics, the FTO will use a general conversation format (not lecture) and allow for PPO interaction and questions. 4. The Checklist will be completed each day until the list of learning topics has been covered. 5. A Checklist is not considered completed unless it is signed by the PPO. 6. A Patrol Sergeant will verify the checklist is complete. 7. Any PPO failing to complete the checklist within the designated timeline will not be allowed to continue training until the checklist is complete. This means for every day the checklist is not completed it will be counted as a non-training day. Daily Observation Report (DOR) - A DOR report will be completed following these guidelines: 1. Completed each training day by the FTO through Acadis. 2. The report contains a numerical rating indicating a PPO’s performance in a dimension using the approved rating guide within Acadis. 3. The report details the PPO’s strengths, weaknesses, how they responded to training, any violations or performance deficiencies committed during the shift and all training completed to work towards mitigating a PPO’s deficiencies. Violations or performance deficiencies related to a specific call will include the call number in the DOR. 4. A DOR will be completed by the end of the current shift, but no later than the start of the next scheduled training day. The direct line supervisor will be responsible for time calculations and/or schedule adjustments. 5. A DOR is not considered completed unless it is signed by the PPO. 6. FTOs will document remediation or other training conducted by completing the “number of minutes” section and listing the specific training in the comments section. 7. FTOs will enter the call information in the “calls” section of the DOR or the comments section of the specific dimension. DO NOT enter all calls the PPO was assigned, only those that are related to poor or exceptional performance. 8. FTOs will attach documents that validate a continuing issue not being resolved or supports an NRT to the DOR (example inability to complete an AVS or write a narrative of a police report in chronological order etc.). Prior to attaching the document any PII (personal Identifying Information), should be struck out. 9. A Patrol Sergeant will ensure a DOR is completed every day a PPO trains with an FTO and will document this review by signing the DOR no later than the start of the next scheduled training week. Page 21 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024  10. A DOR WILL NOT be completed if the PPO is absent for the training day or did not train with an FTO for at least 80% of the shift unless the training day was interrupted (i.e., PPO was injured on a call and went to the hospital, etc.). 11. The PPO will have a minimum of 32 (modified class) or 52 (standard class), reports on file at the completion of the FTP (other PPO’s records will vary depending on the length of time assigned to the FTP). Weekly Report - A report completed by the Patrol Sergeant addressing the PPO’s progress and performance for each work week. A Weekly report will be completed following these guidelines: 1. Completed at the end of the work week by the Patrol Sergeant through Acadis when a PPO is assigned to an FTO. 2. The sergeant must meet with the PPO and FTO on a weekly basis regarding performance and plans. 3. The report is based on the DORs and PPO counseling session (conducted each week), and will include: a. The phase of training (select the notes tab to update/correct), b. A summary of the work week, c. A Training Plan, d. Attachments of training assignments completed with a non FTO, e. Absences, f. Records Check, g. Employee success plan/counseling for conduct, h. Time spent with a non-FTO, i. Additional training conducted by non FTO, j. Prior corrective measures, k. Exceptional performance. 4. A Patrol Lieutenant will review, enter any comments, sign, and submit a progress notification to the PPO’s chain of command at the end of each calendar month but no later than the 10th day of the next calendar month. The review will include: a. Verification that a weekly report was written each work week, b. The reports were signed by the PPO, c. Any additional training conducted by a non FTO was documented and added to the Weekly Report as an attachment, d. A copy of the most recent weekly report will serve as the notification and will be emailed to the Assistant Chief, Patrol Commander, and FT Lieutenant in the PPO’s chain of command. In the event the PPO is not present for the entire work month, an email stating this can be sent in lieu of the report. 5. A Weekly Report is not considered completed unless it is signed by the PPO and the Patrol Lieutenant. 6. A Weekly Report WILL NOT be completed if the PPO is absent the entire work week. Page 22 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024  7. The PPO will have a minimum of 8 (modified) and 13 (standard) reports on file at the completion of the FTP (other PPOs records will vary depending on the length of time assigned to the FTP). Monthly Report - A report completed by the Patrol Sergeant addressing the PPOs progress and performance for each calendar month after being released to solo phase. A Monthly report will be completed following these guidelines: 1. Completed through Acadis by the Patrol Sergeant at the conclusion of each calendar month but no later than the 5th day of the next calendar month. 2. It includes: a. The phase of training (select the notes tab to update/correct), b. A summary of the work month, c. Any additional training conducted with a non FTO, d. A Training Plan, e. Absences, f. Employee success plan/counseling for conduct g. Prior corrective measures, h. Exceptional performance. 3. A Patrol Lieutenant will review, enter any comments, sign, and submit a progress notification to the PPO’s chain of command at the end of each calendar month but no later than the 10th day of the next calendar month. The review will include: a. Verification that a monthly report was written each calendar month, b. The reports were signed by the PPO, c. Any additional training conducted with a non FTO, d. A copy of the report will serve as the progress notification and will be emailed to the Assistant Chief, Patrol Commander and FT Lieutenant in the PPO’s chain of command. In the event the PPO is not present for the entire work month, an email stating this can be sent in lieu of the report. 4. A Monthly Report is not considered completed unless it is signed by the PPO. 5. A Monthly Report WILL NOT be completed if the PPO is absent the entire calendar month. 6. The PPO should have a minimum of 13 (modified) and 12 (standard) reports on file at the completion of the FTP unless the PPO was extended in the program under an ESP (other PPOs records will vary depending on the length of time assigned to the FTP). Assignment with Non-FTO Narrative - Documentation of a special assignment, significant training and/or action or training conducted with a non FTO must be submitted to the Patrol Sergeant. The officer, detective, dispatcher, or civilian to whom the PPO was assigned will complete a brief narrative of the assignment and any significant training and/or performance accomplished. This narrative will be attached by the Patrol Sergeant to the Weekly or Monthly report (whichever is applicable) through Acadis and explain the loss of a training day and reason for training assignment. This Page 23 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024 will be entered into the Training Plan by the Patrol Sergeant. (i.e., FTO called in sick on short notice not allowing for time to move the PPO to another shift, he was assigned to ride with Officer Smith, #1234, see attachment) Employee Success Plan - A report completed by the Patrol Sergeant identifying the PPO’s deficiencies and outlining a method for corrections. An ESP will be completed following these guidelines: Completed by the Patrol Sergeant through Acadis. 1. Articulate clear performance deficiencies, clear and realistic remedial training objectives, clear performance outcomes that the PPO should meet, and a timeline for ESP. (Refer to the ESP section for a detailed explanation) 2. An ESP is not considered complete unless signed by the PPO. 3. The Patrol Sergeant will list themselves as the manager and after the completion of the ESP they will enter the outcome under the manager comments section and then sign the report as a manager. 4. A Patrol Sergeant will complete Weekly reports for the duration of the ESP. 5. A copy of the initial report and a copy of the report after the outcome is entered will be emailed to the FT Lieutenant and FTP Coordinator FTP Evaluation - An important element of running a consistent and successful field training program is the continuous evaluation of FTO performance and the relevance of the program itself. The FTP Coordinator has the responsibility to seek feedback from PPOs who are participating in or who have completed the field training program. This feedback encompasses both the program and its FTOs. 1. The PPO survey will be followed as documented under Phase Guidelines and Board of Evaluators 2. The Field Training Program maintains discretion when implementing FTO 360 evaluations and/or FTO exit surveys; however, FTOs may elect to participate in the FTO 360 at any time. The 360 survey is anonymous and intended to provide information directly to FTOs who want to improve their performance and skills. FTOs may request a 360 survey or survey results by emailing the FTP Coordinator 3. FTOs will be provided a 360 Survey and the ending URL will be FTO with the FTOs last name (i.e., FTO Smith) 4. Survey results will not be shared with anyone EXCEPT the FTO and after the results are shared, the administrator will clear the survey results. BOE Report - Completed by the Chairperson immediately at the conclusion of the BOE through Acadis. The Chairperson will scan the BOE Chairpersons summary as well as the 5 BOE member worksheets and attached them to the report in Acadis. The Chairperson will email a copy of the results (minus the attachments) to the following: 1. The PPO’s Patrol Commander, 2. The PPO’s FT Lieutenant, Page 24 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024  3. FTP Coordinator 4. [email protected] 5. [email protected] 6. [email protected]. Neighborhood Portfolio Exercise Report - Completed by the Corporal no later than 30 days prior to the end of the class probation date, during solo phase. Use the following guidelines: 1. Complete one report in Acadis for each attempt to complete the exercise, and 2. Attach the Report, Presentation and Evaluations 3. Email the FTP Coordinator upon completion. 4. Email [email protected] Attachment Document - Completed through Acadis and allows the ability to attach specific documents to the PPO’s record that are not related to a report (i.e., Resignation documentation, Light Duty paperwork etc.) 3722 Peace Officer Field Training Roster - Within 30 days of completion of the APD FTP, the Field Training Coordinator will submit a TCOLE roster to the Training Academy after verifying the following: 1. The PPO is not on probation, 2. The PPO has completed 15 months in a uniformed patrol position (as indicated by APD Policy), 3. The PPO has completed all mandatory assignments and exercises as outlined in the FTP SOP (i.e., minimum training days with an FTO, NPE exercise, etc.), and 4. All required reports that are on file have signatures indicating completion (as required per report). Civil Service Retention Report -Completed through Informa by the FT Lieutenant immediately after the close of the pay period following the end of the PPO’s probation. Use the following guidelines: 1. Complete one report for each Sector, 2. Verify the PPO: a. Is not on an active employee success plan, b. Has the required minimum number of completed reports on file and each report contains the PPO’s signature, c. Is an active employee currently assigned to a Patrol shift (not deployed, inactive, light duty, extended etc.) 3. List all PPOs assigned to the same Sector and cadet class in the report with an explanation for those not recommended for retention (i.e., inactive, extended, deployed), and 4. Have the Commander approve the recommendation by signing the report. 5. The FT Lieutenant will send a copy of the completed report to: a. FTP Coordinator Page 25 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024  b. [email protected] 6. The Field Training Manager will compile the Sector reports into one Department report no later than 3 weeks after the end of the PPO’s probation. A copy of the report will be sent to: a. The Chief of Police b. The Training Commander, c. The Training Administrator, d. [email protected] ,and e. [email protected] Collection and Preservation of Evidence FTP members are required to follow Austin Police Department Policy with the collection and preservation of evidence. Equipment/Vehicle Operation and Control Unit members are required to follow Learned Skills Unit SOPs (if assigned to the Training Academy) and Patrol SOPs (if assigned to Patrol) for the equipment/vehicle operation and control. Glossary The following are terms used in the Field Training Program: Adore: The retired FTO software application that was used to track PPO’s evaluation records for Cadet Classes 109th-124th. The application started in 2004 and was retired in September 2014. The records were archived to Crystal Reports and are in the process of being migrated to Informa FTO. Conduct/Performance: An appraisal of performance which measures the PPO’s ability to perform as a solo patrol officer based upon standardized evaluation guidelines (SEGs). COPPS: Community-Oriented Policy and Problem Solving Board of Evaluators (BOE): A PPO’s final evaluation held to determine their progress before assuming a solo police assignment (solo phase). Feedback: Verbal or written response to a PPO performance provided to the PPO from the FTO, Patrol Sergeant or Training Academy. Field Training Officer (FTO): An officer assigned the responsibility of training and evaluating PPOs during the FTP who have met the minimum standards set forth by TCOLE, APD Policy and the FTP SOP and who is currently receiving payment in the form of a stipend. Page 26 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024 Field Training (FT) Lieutenant: A sector lieutenant designated as a point of contact between for the Field Training Coordinator and the PPO, FTO, Patrol Sergeant, Patrol Lieutenant and Patrol Commander. Informa: The retired FTO software application that was used to track PPO’s evaluation records for Cadet Classes 125th-144th. The database has been stored. CTM can search for the stored information with a request from the FTP Coordinator. Acadis: A single web-based portal for managing agency training records that contains an FTO module used to track PPO’s evaluation records for the Cadet Class 144th to current. Minimum Training Standards: Those standards met when the PPO consistently demonstrates the knowledge and ability to perform required tasks while in a solo patrol duty status. Demonstration of said ability must occur in actual or field-like scenario situations and must be performed in a safe and competent manner. NPE: Neighborhood Portfolio Exercise Operational Understanding: Demonstrated ability to properly apply APD policy and Academy training objectives as a standard for personal and professional conduct and the performance of their duties. Performance Objective: Description of skills, knowledge, ability, attitude, or action the PPO must have or do to demonstrate mastery of a training goal. Prescriptive Training: A correction or review of previously taught information or procedures (excluding academy training). It becomes necessary when the PPO’s job performance is evaluated as less than acceptable after having been provided with sufficient training or intervention which should have corrected and/or improved the job performance. Probationary Police Officer (PPO): A commissioned Police Officer whose employment is contingent on successful completion of required training and a probation period. Role-Play Training: Reality-based Training Exercises. Standardized Evaluation Guidelines (SEGs): SEGs are categorized levels of performance that are applied to all PPOs and reported on the Daily Observation Report (DOR). Test: An evaluation of the PPO’s skills, knowledge and/or ability to perform a specific task or training goal. The PPO’s competency must be demonstrated or tested minimally through one of the following types of tests: 1. Department Knowledge Test- A Department written or verbal test that measures the knowledge required to achieve one or more training goals. 2. Role-play Test- A job simulation test that measures the skills, knowledge, and/or abilities required to achieve one or more training goals. Page 27 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024  3. Field Performance Tests- Any test that measures the skills, knowledge, abilities, and attitudes required to achieve one or more training goals. These will generally be in the form of calls for service, traffic enforcement, and self-initiated activity. Trainee (s) - PPOs, Police Cadets and/or Officers enrolled in the Returning to Officer Program who are enrolled in the FTP. Training Day: A Day in which a PPO is assigned to an FTO for the purpose of being trained and/or evaluated for 80% or more of the scheduled shift. This provision allows for pre-planned leave and unexpected occurrences during a shift (i.e., sick, injured, administrative tasks, etc.) so long as the 80% threshold is met. PPOs will also be extended for any training days not spent with an FTO. Assignments PPOs will be under the direct and immediate supervision (physical presence) of a field training officer throughout the program. At no time should another officer (or civilian) who is not an APD FTO evaluate a PPO. However, field training can be significantly enhanced by an experience that is not included in training provided by an FTO. PPOs will not be used as actors for role-play unless specifically requested by the Cadet Unit. Assignment with Non-FTO - Assignments made for brief periods of time to allow PPOs to work with another senior officer (non-FTO) or civilian (non-law enforcement duties) on special investigations or in specialized training areas (i.e., field evidence technician, criminal investigation, narcotics, communications etc.) can be beneficial. These assignments must have the prior approval of the FTP Coordinator and depending on the length and assignment itself, may extend a PPO’s probation. 1. This action can also be followed if an FTO misses a shift due to illness, court, etc., and there is no FTO available. This does not require prior approval of the FTP Coordinator. 2. These assignments do not count as a training day and will be documented in a brief narrative that is attached to the weekly report. 3. Payment of training by non-FTOs will be restricted to prior approval from the FTP Coordinator and does not include patrol personnel. PPO Assignments - PPOs will be assigned to work in a patrol Sector (excluding DTAC). Any other assignment requires prior approval from the FTP Coordinator and may result in an extension of a PPOs probation. 1. According to staffing, initial Sector assignments will be completed by the FT Coordinator 14 days prior to graduation, using the following guidelines: a. Patrol vacancies as provided by the Staffing Lieutenant or if not provided as reflected on the staffing allocation sheet, b. PPO’s preferences, and c. Approval by the FT Manager and the FT Director, Page 28 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024  d. Specific shift assignments will be completed by the FT Lieutenants using the following guidelines: e. PPOs will remain in the Sector assigned (for Solo assignment purposes), but may be trained as needed in other Sectors, f. PPOs may be rotated (regardless of their permanent assignment) through various shifts for training purposes, g. PPOs will be rotated among FTOs to allow for a variety of work assignments, h. FTOs may be rotated to allow for PPOs to obtain the variety of work assignments, i. PPOs will be assigned to the same FTO for an entire work week, j. PPOs will not be assigned to areas unapproved by the FTP unless approved by the FT Coordinator. Temporary assignments (outside of the approved patrol areas, including DTAC) must be for legitimate training purposes and PPOs will only engage in these temporary assignments under the supervision/direction of an FTO unless authorized by the FT Coordinator, k. PPOs will be provided as much notice as possible prior to training assignment changes, and l. PPO’s FTP assignments will be maintained on the FTP SharePoint site. 2. PPOs related to sworn personnel assigned to a Patrol Sector, will not be placed for training in that Sector while on probation. Relatives are defined as: a. Related to the employee (e.g., a spouse or domestic partner, a parent, a child, a sibling, a half sibling, a grandparent, a grandchild, an aunt, an uncle, a niece, a nephew, a first cousin or the spouse of any of the relationships listed). b. Related to the employees’ spouse or domestic partner (e.g., a parent, a child, a sibling, a half sibling, a grandparent, a grandchild, an aunt, an uncle, a niece, a nephew, or a first cousin). c. A divorce or the death of a spouse ends a relationship created by that marriage unless a child of that marriage is living, in which case the marriage is considered to continue if a child of that marriage lives. 3. Explorer Assignments - APD explorers conducting patrol ride-outs will be assigned to an FTO. 4. Returning Officers Assignments – This program resides with the Continuing Education Unit. Refer to the CEU SOPs for more details. Returning Officers will be assigned to work in a patrol Sector (excluding DTAC). CEU and the FTP Coordinator will determine the length of the FTP assignment and aspects are to be completed. FTOs and Patrol Sergeants will follow Reporting and Documentation and Phase General Guidelines. 5. Assignment Change Notification - The Patrol Sergeant will send an email to FTP Coordinator and [email protected] for any of the following PPO status or assignment changes: a. Light or limited duty, Page 29 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024  b. Nonpatrol (i.e., DTAC, Parks etc.), or special assignment, c. Restricted Duty, d. FMLA, e. Military Leave, or f. Any extended absence (over 30 days). Program Guidelines Enrollment - An Officer is automatically enrolled in the FTP upon graduation from the Training Academy or at the request of the Continuing Education Unit (i.e., Returning Officer Program). Requirements: 1. Must complete orientation, checklist, and phase training. 2. Must complete 15 months in a uniformed patrol position. 3. Returning Officers will complete the portion of the FTP deemed necessary. Extension of Probation: Officers assigned to a temporary Limited Duty assignment, or who take leave (other than vacation to include FMLA), will have their probation extended by a period equal to the employee's Limited Duty/nonpatrol assignment or leave taken. Hazing Prohibited: PPOs will be taught in a respectable and professional manner. They will not do any activities beyond the normal scope of their duties nor forced to conduct tasks as a “rite of passage” or “initiation.” These include but are not limited to the following: 1. Requiring the PPO to conduct work, i.e., study, outside their normal work hours. 2. Requiring the PPO to wear their dress uniform beyond that which is necessary. 3. Requiring the PPO to perform physical fitness tasks beyond the necessary scope of their duty. These types of tasks can be construed as a form of hazing depending on the circumstance, so we must avoid such activities. We all have the same objective, which is to build the finest police officers in the nation; therefore, we must conduct ourselves in a manner that exemplifies this philosophy. Each PPO’s progress, as they proceed through the field training program, is recorded by means of evaluations in a written report. The evaluation process is as important as the training process and documents the PPO’s progress while providing clear communication between the PPO and the FTO/supervisors. These reports are excellent tools for informing PPOs of their performance level and identify training needs and efforts while chronicling the skills and efforts of the trainers in addition to providing important documentation for litigation, remedial training, and termination of employment. Collectively, over the duration of the program, these written reports describe the PPO’s successes, failures, improvements, digressions, and attempts to manage each of these Page 30 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024 occurrences. Honest and objective evaluations of PPOs must be a prime consideration. The following guidelines will be applied when training and evaluating a PPO: 1. Evaluation reports will be immediate, constant, and fair, 2. PPOs will be assigned to an FTO for training and evaluation periods, 3. PPOs should be assigned to work with 1 FTO for a minimum of one work week to provide consistency in the training and evaluation process, 4. PPOs will NOT receive credit for those days they are assigned to a non-FTO, 5. PPOs must train with an FTO for 80% of the scheduled shift to be counted as a training day, 6. Every training day will be documented by the FTO using the Daily Observation Report (DOR), 7. FTOs will evaluate a PPO on how well a particular dimension or task is performed using the FTP ratings guide. Remember: all PPOs should be evaluated throughout the entire program using the solo patrol officer standard as “acceptable.” 8. Every week the PPO is with an FTO, it will be documented by the Patrol Sergeant using the Weekly Report. (4 DORs = 1 Weekly) 9. Every month the PPO is in solo phase, it will be documented by the Patrol Sergeant using the Monthly Report, 10. The Patrol Sergeant will implement an employee success plan using the employee success plan guidelines, and 11. DORs, Weekly and Monthly Reports WILL NOT be completed if the PPO is absent during that appropriate time frame of the report (example, if the PPO is on Military Leave NO REPORTS should be completed because they were not physically present during the time frame). Leave - PPOs are permitted to request leave in accordance with APD policy and City of Austin personnel policies. Scheduled leave will not be used to circumvent a training day (i.e., scheduling PPOs for vacation ½ the day). Resignation Process - PPOs may notify any member of the FTP of their intent to resign from the Department. When notice is received of the intent: The PPO or members of the PPO’s chain of command, will immediately notify the appropriate Patrol Commander, FTP Coordinator and [email protected]. The Patrol Commander or the Training Commander may meet with the PPO to investigate and ascertain the motivation behind the intent to resign. All members of the FTP are prohibited from coercing resignations from PPOs. Patrol Sergeants will: 1. Review the PPO’s records in Acadis for completeness, 2. Have the PPO, FTOs and Supervisors sign any reports that are incomplete, 3. Have the PPO complete the required APD HR forms which are located on the Field Training SharePoint site, Page 31 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024  4. Attach a copy of the resignation and other separation paperwork to the PPOs record under the report called “Documents” in Acadis in the PPOs training record, 5. Update the PPO’s status to separated entering the date of separation as a note, and 6. Send an email notification to a. APD Cadet/PPO resignations (the global display is APD Cadet/PPO resignations, and the email address is [email protected]). Termination Process - PPOs are classified as “at will” employees and not governed by Civil Service Commission Rules. Any supervisor in the PPOs chain of command or FTP may initiate the employment termination process at any time during the FTP. 1. Any recommendation for termination will be documented in a memorandum addressed to the Patrol Commander. 2. A recommendation for termination may be based upon, but not limited to, the following: a. Violations of COA or APD Policy, b. Violations of APD Patrol or FTP Standard Operating Procedures, c. A PPOs failure to respond to training and correct performance deficiencies, and d. A PPOs failure to meet standards established by any law, COA or APD policy or SOP. 3. The Patrol Sergeant and FT Lieutenant will ensure all documentation used to support the recommendation for termination is organized and available. 4. Upon receipt of a recommendation for termination, a PPOs Patrol Commander will notify and discuss the recommendation with the Training Commander. The purpose of the discussion will be to determine whether to recommend PPO employment termination to the Chief of Police or whether to implement additional authorized prescriptive training to correct performance deficiencies and should include the following: 5. Possible authorized training options available that could be explored to correct performance deficiencies in addition to any existing employee success plan(s), 6. The PPOs responses to any existing employee success plan(s) developed to correct their deficiencies, and 7. A review of all the PPOs records (e.g., DORs, Weekly’s, Monthly’s, Progress Report’s, employee success plans and other documentation) and any areas of concern regarding a PPOs performance deficiency. 8. If applicable, the Patrol Commander shall notify the appropriate Assistant Chief of Police that they concur with the recommendation for termination of employment. 9. The Assistant Chief of Police shall in turn submit the recommendation for termination of employment to the Chief of Police for final review and approval. Page 32 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024  10. The Patrol Lieutenant will attach a copy of the recommendation for termination and other separation paperwork to the PPO’s record in Acadis under the attachment report. Civil Service Retention - At the end of each cadet class probation period, the Patrol Commander will make the determination if the PPO will be released from probation and retained as a Police Officer, in accordance with the State of Texas Government Code. Returning Officer Program – Officers who are rehired or return from an extended period of leave (e.g., military deployments) will be assigned to the Continuing Education Unit’s Returning Officer Program. The period of separation cannot exceed more than 24 months. Upon successful completion of the Returning Officer Program, a rehired/returning Officer may be enrolled in the FTP. In addition, CEU may request an officer to be assigned to the Return to Officer Program when the officer has not been assigned to patrol functions for an extended period. 1. The Return to Officer Program includes a psychological interview. Refer to Continuing Education Unit SOPs. Military Veterans - In accordance with Title 38 Code of Federal Regulations, the City of Austin Provides eligible military veteran PPOs with compensation for education during the FTP if they do not exceed 160 hours each month for a total of 2400 hours. During the FTP, the military veteran PPO will submit the following documents to the VA Benefits Liaison/VA Certifying Official: 1. Copies of all the payroll timesheets that were submitted to HR for each week (copies must contain the veteran and supervisor’s signature), 2. Copies of Informa Weekly or Monthly Reports that reflect the veteran progress and training status for the time requested, 3. A completed VA Form 22-6553d-1 Monthly Certification of the on-the- job/apprenticeship training form, and 4. The work process tracking log (used to document training hours per calendar month. 5. The following is the approved job duties break down (hours are approximate): Hours Per Hours For Job Duties Break Down Week 15 Months Patrol Preparation (show-up/equipment safety checks) 2 130 Traffic (collisions/Enforcement/Direction) 12 780 Records 10 650 (reports/affidavits/evaluations/administrative/other) Patrol Investigations 8 520 Calls for Service 8 520 Total 40 2600 Page 33 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024 Probation Period - The “at will” probationary period begins on the date of commission with APD and ends after 15 months for both Standard and Transitional Officer Program (Modified Cadet classes). The first date a PPO from a cadet class is eligible to end their probation will be entered into Acadis. This is a general “class” date not a date per PPO. PPOs who are assigned to a temporary Limited Duty assignment, or who take leave (other than non-FMLA vacation), will have their probation extended by a period equal to the assignment or leave taken. Probation time for each PPO will be calculated by the Field Training Coordinator using these procedures: 1. The class probation date will be calculated and then posted in Acadis as the “Estimated Training Completion” date. 2. A request will be submitted to HR for an audit of the PPO’s time and attendance records following these parameters: a. The date of the report will be the day they graduate the Academy until the projected class probation end date. b. The report will include a list of the dates and number of hours all limited duty/injury and all leave taken EXCEPT military leave, vacation, personnel holiday, exception vacation and comp time. 3. The probation date for EACH PPO will be calculated using the time and attendance report no later than 21 days after the class probation date. 4. PPOs will be emailed their projected probation end date and must notify the FTP Coordinator no later than 5 calendar days if there is a discrepancy. In the event the issue cannot be resolved by the FTP Coordinator, it will be referred to APD HR to validate: a. PPOs will not involve their Chain of Command in probation calculation issues until AFTER they have been calculated and/or confirmed by APD HR and the PPO does not agree with the date determined. b. The Training Academy has 30 days after the calculated date to enter the PPO’s records into TCLEDDS to meet Peace Officer licensing requirements. c. PPOs will not request FTP Coordinator to individually calculate their probation end date prior to the end of the class probation date. This is a manual process and very time consuming; PPOs are encouraged to maintain a record of their own time and attendance records and can validate/project their own probation end date by reviewing their earnings statements. 5. A copy of the projected probation end date will be sent to: a. [email protected], b. [email protected], c. APD VA liaison, and d. [email protected]. Page 34 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024  Phase Guidelines The Austin Police Department Field Training Program has 5 phases: 1. Orientation phase, 2. Phase 1, 3. Phase 2, 4. Phase 3, and 5. Solo phase PPOs will complete the following phases and number of training days as follows: 1. Standard Class: a. Starts in Orientation, b. Ends in Solo, and c. Completes a minimum of 52 training days. 2. Modified Class: a. Starts in Phase 2, b. Ends in Solo, and c. Completes a minimum of 32 training days. 3. Returning Officer: a. Will start in Phase 3 and complete a minimum of 4 training days or as determined by the Continuing Education Unit. Orientation Phase The orientation phase will provide PPOs the opportunity to observe the application of APD policy and police procedures while in a field environment. This is an orientation and evaluation period and will be completed following these guidelines: 1. PPOs will complete 4 days of training with a FTO before advancing to Phase 1. 2. The PPO is primarily an observer while the FTO provides step by step instruction. The FTO will perform police duties in accordance with COA and APD policy and will verbally explain all enforcement action they take. They will also provide opportunities for the PPO to demonstrate and review the task learned. This DOES NOT prevent a PPO from taking appropriate police action as required by Law and Policy, and it is the FTO’s responsibility to make this clear on training day 1. 3. PPOs will have their Versadex queue updated to the shift they are assigned to prevent operational reports from being inadvertently sent to the Training queue. Phase 1 1. PPOs will complete 16 days of training with an FTO before advancing to Phase 2. 2. The PPO is primarily a student while the FTO acts as a role model, coach, and trainer. The FTO will initially perform most police duties in accordance with APD policy and provide opportunities for the PPO to demonstrate understanding of the Page 35 of 45 Austin Police Department Field Training Program Manual Revised April 5, 2024  duties performed. The FTO will demonstrate each task/police duty at least once prior to having the PPO take the lead and will be prepared to intervene immediately. The PPO will be expected to perform an increasing amount of police duties throughout Phase 1. Phase 2 1. PPOs will complete 16 days of training with an FTO before advancing to Phase 3. 2. The PPO will perform additional police duties (compared to Phase 1) in accordance with APD policy while the FTO acts as a role model, coach, and trainer. The FTO will closely monitor and evaluate the actions of the PPO and will be prepared to intervene frequently. Phase 3 1. PPOs will complete 16 days of training with an FTO before advancing to solo phase. 2. This is predominantly a test and evaluation only (no training) phase. A PPO will perform all police duties in accordance with APD policy while FTOs closely monitor and evaluate their actions (in uniform). FTOs should only have to intervene in rare instances and will not take any action except in instances where intervention is necessary. 3. PPOs that do not progress to solo phase will be extended in Phase 3. The extension length is dependent on the length of the ESP (see Employee Success Plan for additional information). Solo Phase PPOs released from FTO supervision are allowed to perform all patrol duties independently with the expectation they adhere to APD policy and basic training objectives. They will be expected to competently perform as a solo patrol officer and will be evaluated monthly by the Patrol Sergeant until the end of their probation period and completion of the Field Training Program. In addition, the following applies while on probation: 1. Prior to going Solo, PPOs will participate in the FTP anonymous survey located at: FTP Survey 2. The FTP Coordinator will compile the results and submit them to: a. FTP Manager, b. FTP Director, and