Washington Administrative Code Title 139 - Criminal Justice Training Commission
Overview of WAC Title 139
WAC Title 139 contains the rules and regulations that govern the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission (CJTC). The CJTC is the agency responsible for establishing and maintaining standards for the training, certification, and continuing education of law enforcement officers, corrections officers, and other criminal justice personnel within Washington State.
The Commission plays a crucial role in ensuring that law enforcement professionals are properly trained, competent, and held to high ethical and professional standards to protect public safety and uphold the law.
Key Functions Covered by WAC Title 139
1. Commission Structure and Authority
Defines the composition of the Commission, including appointed members representing law enforcement agencies, corrections, prosecutors, defense attorneys, and the public.
Describes the powers and responsibilities of the Commission, such as setting training standards, certifying officers, and enforcing disciplinary actions.
Establishes procedures for meetings, rulemaking, and decision-making.
2. Certification of Criminal Justice Personnel
Basic Certification: Requirements for initial certification of law enforcement and corrections officers, including successful completion of approved basic training programs.
Certification Renewal: Requirements for maintaining certification, including continuing education, physical fitness, and professional conduct.
Reciprocity: Procedures for recognizing certifications from other states or jurisdictions.
Special Certifications: Additional certifications for specialized roles (e.g., firearms instructors, field training officers).
3. Training Standards and Curriculum
Development and approval of standardized training curricula for basic and in-service training.
Mandates minimum training hours and course content areas such as:
Legal knowledge (constitutional law, criminal procedure)
Use of force and firearms proficiency
Ethics and professional conduct
Crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques
Cultural competency and community relations
Standards for instructor qualifications and training academy operations.
4. Use of Force and Firearms Policies
Rules governing the authorized use of force by officers.
Training and certification requirements related to firearms use.
Reporting and investigation requirements for use-of-force incidents.
5. Disciplinary Actions and Decertification
Grounds for disciplinary actions, including criminal conduct, professional misconduct, incompetence, or violations of Commission rules.
Procedures for investigations, hearings, and appeals related to discipline or decertification.
Processes for suspension, revocation, or denial of certification.
Reinstatement rules for officers seeking to regain certification after suspension or revocation.
6. Continuing Education and Professional Development
Requirements for ongoing training to keep officers up-to-date on laws, techniques, and best practices.
Standards for approving continuing education providers and courses.
Tracking and reporting continuing education compliance.
7. Reporting and Recordkeeping
Requirements for agencies and officers to report training completion, incidents, and certification status.
Maintenance of official records by the Commission.
Public access to certain records and confidentiality protections.
8. Ethical Standards and Professional Conduct
Expectations for ethical behavior by officers.
Policies addressing conflicts of interest, discrimination, harassment, and officer responsibilities to the public and the law.
Guidelines for handling complaints and misconduct.
Importance of WAC Title 139
Ensures that law enforcement and criminal justice personnel in Washington State meet rigorous professional and ethical standards.
Promotes public trust and accountability in law enforcement through standardized training and certification.
Helps reduce liability and improve the effectiveness of criminal justice agencies.
Provides a clear framework for disciplinary action, maintaining high standards of conduct.
Summary
WAC Title 139 lays out the administrative rules for the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission, covering everything from officer certification and training requirements to use-of-force policies and disciplinary procedures. It ensures that criminal justice personnel are well-trained, certified, and held accountable, which helps protect both officers and the communities they serve.
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