Off-duty corrections officer injured in attempt to stop shoplifter

Honestly, the training over here varies, depending on what position you work. Our HIP officers get more training in various areas than will a floor security officer. Our SORT team gets more training as well, and we even have officers who've been to both basic and advanced SWAT schools. Is it academy trained? No, not usually..although our training has encompassed a good deal more in the past than it does today. Training or not, I fully believe it is the responsibility of every officer with a badge to know state law, local ordinances, and federal law, including case law handed down by both appellate and the Supreme Courts. On that note, are you aware of the ruling made by the Ninth Circuit this past week regarding Taser usage? Unless reversed by the Supremes, be prepared for a rather adverse policy change on where Taser fits into the force continuum.

In any case, a lack of training is the fault of the agency and not the officer. But, the officers who choose to work off duty should seek their own training...I have, because I take my job, and my life, seriously.