ABSTRACT
Over the past two decades, we have had the honor to represent, treat medically and psychologically, or provide expert testimony on behalf of individuals charged criminally as the result of using deadly force in the line of duty. These young men and women-either law enforcement officers or warriors in the military-represent some of the finest human beings our republic produces. Full of courage, good intentions, and a desire to fight on the side of good against evil, they are also very human. Some are full of vim and vigor, possessing that bravado that many type-A alpha males and females exhibit. Others are quiet, patient, and even shy. Through the fault of others, they are thrust into an often negative limelight-sometimes even facing criminal charges for doing what society asks of them and for which society itself lacks the stomach or courage. These are men and women that respond when something “goes bump in the night.” Instead of cowering under the sheets, calling the police, and praying nothing goes wrong, these folks volunteer to investigate that “bump,” often to their physical peril.
