CMRJ-525 Week 5: Suicide by Cop

Introduction to CMRJ-525 W5: Suicide by Cop 

The CMRJ-525 Week 5: Suicide by Cop discussion focuses on negotiation strategies and tactical considerations in high-stress scenarios involving individuals intent on “suicide by cop.” Students are tasked with addressing complex situations, requiring a deep understanding of psychological dynamics and tactical coordination. The following Owlisdom How-To guide of CMRJ-525 Week 5: Suicide by Cop provides a structured approach to crafting thoughtful and practical responses to the discussion questions.

Thomas has barricaded himself inside his house and seems determined to make the police kill him in a classic “suicide by cop.” You discover he recently lost his job and has flunked out of college. He has a history of conflicts with authorities. Part of the reason he flunked out of college was that he could not comply with the requirements of his professors. In high school, he had frequent disciplinary problems involving fights with other students. What could you say to Thomas to prevent his impending death? What tactical issues do you need to consider? Why?

Question 1: Negotiating with Thomas

• Gather detailed information on Thomas’s background, including recent events like job loss and academic failure and his history of conflicts. 
• Recognize the psychological factors contributing to his current state, such as feelings of hopelessness and defiance.
• Engage in active listening to understand Thomas’s grievances and fears. 
• Consider the safety of all involved, including Thomas, the police, and bystanders. 
• Position negotiators and tactical units strategically to manage the situation effectively.
• Employ de-escalation techniques such as offering to address his immediate concerns and discussing potential positive outcomes.
• Suggest the involvement of mental health professionals 

Example

In dealing with Thomas, who is determined to provoke a “suicide by cop,” it is essential to adopt a strategy that focuses on understanding his psychological state and building a rapport. Thomas’s recent job loss, academic failure, and a history of conflicts with authority figures have likely contributed to his current desperation. Recognizing these factors is crucial. Engaging in active listening and showing genuine empathy can help build trust. Addressing Thomas’s grievances and fears calmly, using non-confrontational language, is vital. Phrases like “I understand this is a tough time for you” can help validate his feelings and reduce his agitation.

You are the field commander in a situation where a person has barricaded himself inside his residence. This person has occasionally fired shots at the police. The tactical and negotiation supervisors come to you, each wanting their team to resolve the situation. What would you ask each before deciding whether to continue negotiating or going tactical? What If you choose to go tactical in this question? How can you use your negotiation team to support the tactical squad? How can you use your tactical team to support the negotiations if you choose to continue negotiating?

Decision-Making as a Field Commander

• Assess the current status, including the individual’s behavior, threat level, and any ongoing risks, such as occasional gunfire.
• Obtain comprehensive information from officers on the scene and other relevant sources.
• Ask the negotiation supervisor about progress and potential strategies for de-escalation.
• Inquire with the tactical supervisor about readiness, potential risks, and tactical options.
• Weigh the risks and benefits of continuing negotiations versus taking tactical action.
• Consider factors like the individual’s behavior, threat level, and potential for resolution.
• Make an informed decision based on the gathered information and expert advice.
• In a tactical approach, coordinate with the negotiation team to continue dialogue and provide real-time information to the tactical squad.
• If continuing negotiations, use the tactical team to secure the perimeter and ensure safety.

Example

As the field commander in a situation where an individual has barricaded himself and occasionally fired shots at the police, making an informed decision about whether to continue negotiations or go tactical is crucial; the first step is thoroughly evaluating the situation, including the individual’s behavior, threat level, and ongoing risks. Gathering comprehensive information from officers on the scene and other relevant sources is essential for an accurate assessment.

Closing

CMRJ-525 Week 5: Suicide by Cop guide has outlined a structured approach for addressing high-stress situations involving “suicide by cop.” The key takeaway is the importance of empathy, strategic decision-making, and effective coordination between negotiation and tactical teams. By following these guidelines of CMRJ-525 Week 5: Suicide by Cop, students can develop well-reasoned and practical responses to the complex scenarios presented in the assignment.

In the Next assessment of CMRJ-525, students will learn about the recommended actions for negotiating in various circumstances, including dealing with individuals with past military experience and being emotionally disturbed.