INDIANAPOLIS -- Police departments across the state are relying on their negotiators more than ever and whether they’re responding to a person threatening to commit suicide or a hostage situation.
The crisis negotiator is almost always on the front line.
“Every scenario is going to be different,” said FBI Special Agent Gregory Massa. “The mission has obviously developed and changed over the years. There have been so many crisis’ that have occurred and it could occur anywhere and at any time.”
It’s part of their new training and procedures – focusing on gaining the trust of the individual and talking them down instead of jumping the gun.
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“Police officers who are on the front lines are able to gain a conversation with the subject and de-escalate the situation, if possible,” said Special Agent Massa.
The new training focuses specifically on having a conversation, which Massa says is the most important part of their job when they’re in the middle of these types of situations.
“You have to slow things down,” he said. “Take a few steps back and be a listener more than anything.”
Massa says simply having an open dialog is critical, but getting there and continuing the conversation can be difficult and long – but they’re not doing it alone, other members of the SWAT team are always nearby taking notes and ready to help the negotiator with whatever is needed.
“Nobody needs to get hurt, that’s the goal,” said Special Agent Masa.
Massa said that goal is why SWAT situations have been lasting longer than ever before – so police can try to diffuse the situation before someone gets hurt.
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