First State Force Review

Applying the Science of Human Performance to Police Investigations

Why we started our company:

We started First State Force Review to search beyond assumptions, overlooked details, and misunderstood narratives – bridging the gap between human performance and assessing digital video evidence – to deliver accurate, transparent, and scientifically backed understandings of force encounters for law enforcement and the communities alike.

Our values

Our Core Values

Expertise

Delivering unparalleled expertise in forensic video analysis, human factors, and law enforcement perspectives.

Integrity

Upholding the highest standards of integrity in all of our interactions and training programs.

Empowerment

Empowering individuals to make informed decisions based on evidence and contemporary scientific insights.

First State Force Review

Understanding the Perspective from the Lens of the Involved

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Why Choose Us

Why Choose First State Force Review

Experience the difference with our unique value propositions:

Comprehensive Instruction

Gain in-depth knowledge through courses like Human Perception vs. Digital Video and the Dynamic Force Encounters Investigators Course.

Expert Instructors

Learn from seasoned professionals like Lieutenant Matthew Botterbusch and Sergeant Sean Ryan with extensive law enforcement experience.

Cutting-Edge Training

Stay ahead with courses covering topics like Developing a Dedicated Use of Force Review Unit and advanced human factors.

Testimonials

Matt and Sean bring a wealth of practical experience to the world of police use-of-force investigations, review, and training. Their ability to explain complex legal, academic, and law enforcement concepts in simple everyday language is rare in my experience and speaks to their depth of knowledge and experience. As high level practitioners, they not only understand the underlying theories and concerns, they are actively applying and navigating them on a daily basis. They are skilled instructors and have a wealth of knowledge on how to actually apply the concepts they teach. In short, Matt and Sean are the real deal and their courses are a must for those interested in improving the knowledge and capacity in the realm of police use-of-force investigations, review, and training.

– Dr. Paul L. Taylor, Association of Force Investigators

Instant investigative impact. In my experience investigating and managing use-of-force and officer-involved incidents, and building the teams that handle those investigations, Matt and Sean are the rare blend of practitioner, scholar, and effective instructor.
During their class, our investigators not only stayed engaged, but they also immediately began applying the techniques and evaluating video evidence more confidently. First State’s training delivers the tools that improve how modern investigators must think, analyze, and articulate findings when it matters most.

– Captain Christian Cory (ret.), Crimes Against Persons Bureau, Wichita Police Department

I think that Lt. Botterbusch and Sgt. Ryan did an excellent job putting together the presentation for in-service. Truly one of the more informative trainings I attended and they had my attention the entire morning, because the information was so valuable. They are passionate about their roles within the police department and I truly feel as though they have the best interest of our officers in mind. I feel confident in either LT or SGT reviewing any UoF incident I may be involved in some day.

– Training Client

On behalf of the Texas Highway Patrol Use of Force Review Team, I would like to thank Matt and Sean for their invaluable and professional delivery of such an important topic within Law Enforcement. Their expertise and thorough approach provide great insight, making complex concepts easy to understand. The hands-on analysis and real-world examples they offer equip you with practical skills that are directly applicable to your work. I highly recommend this course for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of use of force incidents.

– Lt. David Kral, Texas Department of Public Safety

Let’s Talk About Your Agency’s Needs…

Whether You are looking for training, investigative guidance, or an experienced second opinion, we are here to help.

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