National Initiatives: Law Enforcement Training and Technical Assistance: Specialized Units TTA

The National Sheriffs’ Association (NSA), in collaboration with the International Association of Chiefs of Police, American Institutes for Research, and Public Safety Strategies Group, LLC, proposes a project to the Bureau of Justice Assistance under the National Initiatives: Law Enforcement Training and Technical Assistance: Category 2 solicitation. This proposal outlines a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach to address the pressing issue of specialized law enforcement units tasked with combating violence and street crime. The need for this initiative is underscored by high-profile incidents such as the 2023 death of Tyre Nichols, which has drawn attention to the potential risks and challenges associated with these units.

The project aims to enhance the operational effectiveness and oversight of specialized units through the development of consensus standards and the provision of targeted training and technical assistance (TTA). By establishing these standards and offering tailored support, the project seeks to improve how local law enforcement agencies create, evaluate, and manage units focused on violence and street crime reduction.

The project will be executed through four key objectives: develop consensus standards thorough literature review and policy scan to gather evidence on current practices and gaps with a diverse working group will be established to ensure comprehensive input, followed by virtual listening sessions to refine, and draft initial standards. launch a webpage dedicated on NSA’s website, integrated with the Law Enforcement Knowledge Lab to provide access to the finalized standards, best practices, and practical guidance for law enforcement agencies nationwide; delivery of TTA customized training and technical assistance to local law enforcement agencies through onsite, virtual, and peer-to-peer methods; and outreach and a comprehensive marketing plan will be developed to promote the new standards and TTA services. This plan will use diverse channels such as social media, webinars, and law enforcement publications to reach and support agencies across the country.

Through this project, NSA and its partners aim to bridge existing gaps in the training and oversight of specialized law enforcement units, ultimately fostering safer communities and enhancing public safety nationwide.