Critical Incident Leadership

The Critical Incident Leadership Class is a dynamic 24-hour professional development course designed to sharpen decision-making and leadership skills for high-pressure, chaotic situations. Participants will learn to think clearly and strategically when addressing common challenges, such as leadership gaps, poor decision-making, and a lack of command presence. Through a blend of direct instruction, facilitated discussions, and small group exercises. Students will develop key cognitive thinking strategies and proven principles, many of which are outlined in Sid Heal’s foundational works, Sound Doctrine and Field Command. By applying these principles to realistic, case-based scenarios, students will gain a deeper understanding of how to manage critical incidents, even before the arrival of specialized units like SWAT.

This course prepares law enforcement professionals to effectively navigate the complexities of crisis situations, focusing on risk mitigation, public and officer safety, and appropriate response to suspects and subjects. The principles taught are aligned with best practices for de-escalation and incident management, offering students a robust framework to lead and make sound decisions in real-world events. Participants will leave with practical tools, including checklists, forms, and command post recommendations, along with a workbook to reinforce learning. Ultimately, this course builds the skills needed to lead with confidence in the face of chaos and improve outcomes during high-stakes
incidents.

Presenter:

Capt. Toby Darby
Consultant, Embassy Consulting Services

Toby Darby is a law enforcement professional with over three decades of experience, including serving as a Captain with the Glendale Police Department and as a U.S. Air Force law enforcement specialist. Over his career, he held a range of specialized roles, including 19 years on the SWAT team, assignments in narcotics enforcement with regional and federal task forces, and leadership as a sergeant on the U.S. Marshals’ Regional Fugitive Task Force. A respected instructor, Toby has taught active shooter response and tactical leadership through POST-approved programs and the California Association of Tactical Officers (CATO), where he also serves on the board. A graduate of both the Sherman Block Supervisory Leadership Institute and CATO’s Strategic Leadership Program, he now dedicates his time to training future law enforcement leaders in critical incident leadership.

Embassy training seminars are not open to the general public.  Embassy reserves the right to restrict or deny enrollment or access to any individual.

*No refunds; substitutions will be permitted.