Jujitsu Classes Give Cortez Police Additional De-Escalation Training

De-escalation has increasingly become a focal point for police departments across the country. Reducing the use of excessive force can be especially important for police officers responding to mental health crises and volatile situations, ensuring that both law enforcement and the public remain safe. Officers with the Cortez Police Department receive foundational de-escalation training, but the city’s police chief wanted officers and local sheriff’s deputies to have additional training to better serve residents while also protecting themselves. He had an idea to create a jujitsu program that would give officers specialized instruction and new de-escalation skills. LOR’s funding will help the Cortez Police Department start a yearlong pilot program for ten officers who will attend special jujitsu classes three times a week. There, they will learn moves specifically used by law enforcement to reduce potential conflicts and keep everyone safe.