Members of the HSVC Department of Investigations attended and completed a self-defense training course at the Controlled Response Institute (CRI) in Bakersfield, CA last week. The 24-hour course featured both classroom and realistic scenario-based training with the goal of instilling confidence through making better critical decisions in self-defense situations. Such skills are vital to the safety and protection of our Humane Officers as they venture out into the community to investigate cases of animal abuse, neglect, and cruelty. Humane Investigations Director K. King, Humane Officer Utter, and Humane Officer Trainees R. Gonzalez and A. Derringer each passed the class with flying colors. Way to go team!

Charles Sherman, lead instructor and founder of the Controlled Response Institute, is a retired sworn law enforcement officer with approximately thirty years of service. His professional skills include expertise in use of force, gang and narcotics, Koga and PIDT defense tactics, arrest and control instructor and taser, CRCH & baton instructor. His courses are dedicated to developing and presenting strategic communications and use of force training to law enforcement personnel.

“This is the best self-defense class I have ever taken. Chuck (the instructor) really cares about your safety and it shows in his teaching methods. He’s not only informative, but he makes it fun which means you learn more. I want to make this mandatory for every officer to take at least every three years,” said Officer King.

Thank you, Charles Sherman and CRI family, for providing such valuable training to our staff!