Texas Increases Trauma-Informed Training Requirements for Law Enforcement
As a dedicated advocate for sexual assault survivors and a trauma expert, I am thrilled to share the strides being made in Texas to improve trauma-informed training for law enforcement. New legislation in Texas, effective January 1, 2024, marks a significant step forward. This law mandates all law enforcement personnel undergo eight hours of training every two years on trauma-informed investigations of adult sexual assault and child sexual abuse.
For years, the gap in the training of our law enforcement officers has been a concern of mine. According to the FBI, from the beginning of their career until retirement, the average officer receives merely two hours of training on sexual assault and trauma response. Considering the complexity, sensitivity, and sheer volume of these cases, this is alarmingly insufficient.
Trauma-Informed Law Enforcement Training that Fulfills Texas Requirements
This is where my role as a trauma expert and a survivor of abuse becomes crucial. I bring a unique, personal approach to trauma-informed response training for law enforcement. This not only enhances the instructions impact but also ensures better retention of crucial knowledge among the officers. My 8-hour course, designed to meet the new Texas requirements, is an effective and efficient solution for law enforcement departments and academies across the state.
With over 90 hours of training on sexual assault and trauma and having presented this training across the United States, I am confident in the efficacy of the program I offer.
More Than Just Meeting Texas SASTF Requirements
My mission goes beyond just fulfilling state requirements. It’s about equipping our law enforcement officers with the knowledge and skills they need to handle these delicate situations with the utmost care and understanding. Through my training, I aim to foster a compassionate, trauma-informed approach in sexual assault response strategies. I believe this is vital in better serving our communities.
I am hopeful that other states will follow Texas’s lead in implementing similar training requirements. It’s high time we equip our law enforcement officers with the necessary tools to effectively support victims of these horrendous crimes. Together, we can create a more understanding, empathetic, and skilled law enforcement community that stands strong with sexual assault survivors.
As I continue to partner with law enforcement departments and academies, I look forward to a future where every officer is well-prepared to handle sexual assault cases with the care and expertise they require. Effective training is not just about meeting a legal requirement; it’s about making a real difference in the lives of those we vow to protect and serve.
