PPCT Threat Pattern Recognition and Use of Force Instructor
Instructor:
Joseph (Little Joe) Ferrera, Sergeant – Southfield Police Department, Retired. Joe is a staff instructor for PPCT and the Oakland Police Academy with over 40 years of police experience. Joe has spent 30 years training police officers across the country.
Course Description:
This course will provide the newest research in the area of officer survival during an unexpected close-quarters firefight. This research examines Human Factor Sciences, which is the study of human capabilities and human limitations within a specific domain.
This research has led to the current system of teaching threat pattern recognition and a specific response selection to deal with the threat. This training will help officers respond faster to threat cues.
Topics Include:
- Speed Cuffing
- Distraction Techniques
- Transport Wrist Lock
- Arm Bar Takedowns
- Inside Takedowns
- Rear Takedowns
- Pressure Points for low-level resistance
- Defensive Counter Strikes with arms and legs
- Baton Striking and Blocking Techniques
- Handgun Retention and Disarming skills
- Shoulder Pin Restraining Technique
Required Equipment: Loose fitting clothing or BDUs, boots, training handcuffs, training batons, inert training pistol and duty belt.
Course Details:
- DATES: January 12 - 16, 2026
- TIME: 8:30 am - 5:30 pm
- COSTS: $475.00 – (Small Agency Group Discount - FREE)
- LOCATION: Oakland Police Academy 2900 Featherstone, Auburn Hills, MI 48326 - Location on Campus: Police Academy
- REGISTRATION: Email: policetraining@oaklandcc.edu or phone: (248) 232-4227
- 302 Funds Eligible -
*No shows WILL be billed unless cancellation is received 5 days prior to the class*