Louisiana – The Louisiana State Police recently hosted its First Annual Crisis Negotiation Competition, a unique event aimed at sharpening negotiation skills in real-world scenarios. The competition was designed to challenge participants in high-pressure situations, testing their abilities to work as a team while managing intense, simulated negotiation situations.
Held over six hours, the competition saw teams competing without breaks, mirroring the stressful conditions officers face in actual crisis scenarios. The event provided an invaluable opportunity for law enforcement officers from various agencies to hone their negotiation tactics, improving their preparedness for future challenges in the field.
The Louisiana State Troopers Association and the Fraternal Order of Police – LA DPS Lodge generously provided lunch for the participants, keeping them energized throughout the competition. The U.S. Marshals Service offered the use of their Special Operations Group Training Center, providing a realistic environment for the teams to engage in the simulated negotiation exercises.
The FBI – Federal Bureau of Investigation played a crucial role in evaluating the teams’ performances, ensuring a thorough assessment of their negotiation and teamwork abilities. Independent role players, along with personnel from the University of Louisiana Monroe Police Department, Richland Parish Sheriff’s Office, and Lake Charles Police Department, also contributed to the event’s success, further enriching the learning experience.
After a day of intense negotiation, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office emerged as the winner, earning the championship belt and securing an automatic bid for next year’s competition. However, with the honor of the championship belt comes a challenge: should Jefferson Parish lose next year, they will pass the belt to the new champions.
The event was also supported by Med Express Ambulance Service, Inc., which provided dinner and the location for the awards ceremony. The Louisiana State Police expressed its gratitude to all participating agencies, including the Acadia Parish Sheriff’s Office, Baton Rouge Police Department, St. Mary Parish Sheriff’s Office, Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office, and Alexandria Police Department.
Training events like the Crisis Negotiation Competition are essential for law enforcement agencies to stay sharp and prepared for the challenges they face in the field. The Louisiana State Police looks forward to continuing this event in the future and fostering the ongoing growth and development of its team.