Examining Lethal Force Psychology - Case Study: Starlight Casino Hostage Rescue
** Next course date: Monday, April 20th (9am - 5pm EST) ** A full-day intensive training that bridges psychological theory with real-world operational experience. Law enforcement professionals will learn the psychology behind lethal force decisions in the morning, then analyze how those principles played out in an actual hostage rescue operation in the afternoon.
What is this course?
A full-day intensive training that bridges psychological theory with real-world operational experience. Law enforcement professionals will learn the psychology behind lethal force decisions in the morning, then analyze how those principles played out in an actual hostage rescue operation in the afternoon.
Who teaches it?
Mark Bouchard – Law enforcement expert and author specializing in lethal force psychology. Has developed this content with Joseph Brigandi over several years.
Jordan MacWilliams – Operator with direct experience in the Starlight Casino Hostage Rescue. Has been presenting this operational debrief for years.
Both instructors support each other’s sessions, creating a seamless connection between theory and practice.
What makes it unique?
- Real-world case study: Not hypothetical scenarios – actual operational debrief from Jordan’s experience
- Theory meets practice: Morning psychology concepts are demonstrated in afternoon’s real-world application
- Peer-to-peer learning: Taught by practitioners for practitioners, honoring law enforcement culture
- Interactive format: Instructors take questions and highlight key overlapping points throughout the day
Who should attend?
Required: Connection to law enforcement
- Current or retired officers
- Law enforcement spouses
- Volunteers or civilian employees
Application-based admission with verification of law enforcement connection.
Key Details
When: February 23 & April 20, 2026
Cost: $400 per participant
Includes:
- Full-day instruction from both instructors
- Copy of Mark Bouchard’s book on lethal force psychology
- Jordan MacWilliams’ book (when published)
- All course materials
Capacity: 25 participants per session (limited enrollment)
Course Schedule
Morning Session: Lethal Force Psychology
- Psychological principles of decision-making under stress
- Frameworks for analyzing lethal force scenarios
- Based on Mark’s published work and years of research
- Interactive discussion and Q&A
Afternoon Session: Starlight Casino Hostage Rescue Debrief
- Detailed operational breakdown of actual hostage rescue
- Real-world application of morning’s psychological concepts
- Lessons learned from ground-level perspective
- Cross-referencing between theory and practice
What participants will gain
✓ Deep understanding of psychological factors in lethal force decisions
✓ Real-world case study demonstrating theory in action
✓ Practical insights from operators who’ve been there
✓ Framework for analyzing and debriefing critical incidents
✓ Peer learning in a respectful, professional environment
✓ Resources for continued learning (books and materials)
Educational Philosophy
This course respects the “quiet professional” culture of law enforcement and tactical operations. No sensationalism. No entertainment value. Just solid education from professionals who understand the weight of these decisions and the importance of getting them right.
The combination of Mark’s psychological expertise and Jordan’s operational experience creates a unique learning opportunity that goes beyond typical training scenarios.
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