Consulting Services
Policy Review
We provide comprehensive policy review and development services for U.S. law enforcement agencies. Our approach ensures that every directive is rooted in constitutional policing, legal compliance, institutional goals and values, and comports with the highest standards of professionalism and best policing practices.
The Sentinel Strategy works by aligning standard operating policies and procedures with evidence-based practices to mitigate risk and enhance public safety outcomes.
Case Studies on Use of Force Policy
Focus Area Use of force
Use of force data collection
Members of Sentinel Strategies Group have been involved in use of force research and policy for more than 30 years and have published widely in this area. In a recent engagement with one of the nation's largest law enforcement agencies, our partners evaluated the types of use of force data being collected the agency and made detailed recommendations to help improve the data being captured by officers in the field. The goal was to align agency data collection with best practices, and, in turn, to assist the agency in explaining to the public and oversight authorities how, why, and against whom force was used. Capturing the right data in the right way helps ensure that analysts have the best data available to them for improved statistical modeling, which can provide evidence-based explanations for perceived disparities that interest groups and the media often overlook.
Use of force policy recommendations
In another recent project with a large county law enforcement agency in Virginia, members of Sentinel Strategies Group conducted an in-depth analysis of the agency's use of force policies as part a broader engagement over community concerns with perceived disparities in the use of force. After reviewing the relevant legal and policy research on the use of force by police, including other peer agency policies, the SSG members made a series of detailed policy recommendations related to de-escalation, definitions of levels of resistance and control, the use of force continuum, clarifying the use of deadly force, foot pursuits, and the use of canines to bite resistive persons. These recommendations eliminated inconsistencies, provided needed clarifications to officers, and helped better align this highly professional agency's policies with its peers.
Underscore your agency's values, reduce risk, and align your policies with recommendations from our experts.
Policy Development & Review: Stay Current with Evolving Standards of Professionalism & Integrity
In an era of rapid policy change, Sentinel Strategies Group ensures your agency’s critical policies remain effective and aligned with best practice. Our review process bridges the gap between legal requirements, evolving professional standards, and front-line operations, leading to reduced risk and heightened public trust.