Constables and deputy constables must successfully complete the 20-hour Continuing Education course in order to renew their certifications for 2013. Based upon successful completion of continuing education by October 2012, constables and deputy constables will be issued certification cards in December 2012, which will indicate certification for 2013. No subjects will be waived for municipal police officers or deputy sheriffs in 2012.

Defensive Tactics (8 hours) – This is an eight-hour block of instruction that reviews and provides practice in basic constable defensive tactic techniques including: patterns of movement and footwork, handgun retention techniques, armbar takedowns and outside wrist turn takedowns, handcuffing tactics, techniques and procedures, strikes kicks and blocks, methods of transitioning between force options, and emergency knife defense. This course includes force-on-force role-playing scenarios and a written examination.

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Cultural Diversity (4 hours) – Constables, like all law enforcement officers, deal with people in a variety of situations. Criminals, victims, and those having domestic, mental or emotional problems pose a wide range of challenges, and when the constable shows up, the intensity level usually rises. However, this situation becomes even more complex when one is dealing with persons from a culture other than our own. Unfamiliarity with the cultural practices of any group—from not knowing their language to misunderstanding their nonverbal communications—can result in unnecessary conflict or hostility. Increasing your cultural awareness will improve your ability to interact successfully with persons from a variety of cultures. This course includes a written examination.

Ethics (4 hours) – This four-hour course is designed to provide constables with an overview of ethics as it relates to the duties of a constable, as well as effectively address ethical situations that may occur in the field. An overview of the Pennsylvania State Ethics Commission’s reporting requirements for constables is included, as well as support services offered by the commission. Finally, the State Ethics Commission Statement of Financial Interests, Form SEC-1 REV. 01/11, is reviewed. This course includes a written examination.

Use of Force (4 hours) – This four-hour block of instruction reviews the significance of relevant federal case law regarding the use of force. In addition, an overview of Pennsylvania Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses) Chapter 5 which addresses the use of force is presented. The course concludes with a summary on how a critical incident such as using force can affect your ability to remember the incident and provides seven mental toughness skills to help overcome the effects of stress on your memory. This course includes a written examination.