Municipal Law Enforcement Perceptions of Active Shooter Response Training

There are continuous occurrences of active shooter events in communities all over the United States. This study explored municipal law enforcement active shooter response training, tools used in response to active shooter incidents, and community policing policies practiced by the agency. The theory of andragogy was used to guide the behaviors associated with active shooter training and response. Research questions focused on how Root Agency (pseudonym) officers felt about their agencies’ active shooter response training and how officers felt about whether more active shooter training with the community would be beneficial. Data were collected using qualitative interviews with 10 law enforcement officers from Root Agency. The interviews were transcribed and manually coded using the NVivo software. Results indicated active shooter training as a major instruction that provides preparation and awareness needed to stay ready to respond to active shooter incidents. More specifically, firearm and situational training was a reoccurring reason participants felt their active shooter training was sufficient in building the necessary confidence. Participants also agreed active shooter training in the community should occur more often to help officers and community members better orient themselves in active shooter incidents. Interactive training with community members will increase the likelihood of survival. The implications for positive social change include informing practitioners and policymakers of the importance of involving the community in active shooter training and incorporating risk protection orders and threat assessments for active shooter prevention.