Robbery/Hostage Incident

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WHAT IS THE ROBBERY/HOSTAGE INCIDENT?
The MPS approach to testing critical incident command skills is based on use of a realistic simulation presented in a way that ensures highly standardized, fair, objective scoring of candidate responses. The Robbery/Hostage Incident consists of two parts, which correspond to two phases of the incident. Candidates for first-level supervisory positions take Phase I only; candidates for higher level jobs take both. Pictures and diagrams are provided, along with a listing of all on scene personnel and specialized equipment that is available. Candidates play the role of the Incident Commander. During each phase, the events that occur and the time at which they occur are given. Candidates must review the available information and list the actions they would take. They must also provide their reasons for each.

POSITIONS USED FOR?
The Robbery/Hostage Incident consists of two phases. Use Phase I for first-level supervisors (i.e., sergeant). Use both phases for lieutenants or higher ranks.

ROBBERY/HOSTAGE INCIDENT USED FOR:
>>>>• Police Sergeant (Phase I only)
>>>>• Police Lieutenant (Phases I & II)
>>>>• Police Captain (Phases I & II)

TEST FORMAT
The Robbery/Hostage Incident is a written simulation exercise. It consists of two parts, which correspond to two phases of the incident. In Phase I, assessees are told they are the Incident Commander and arrive a few minutes after the first on scene officer verifies a robbery in progress. In Phase II, assessees are told to assume that someone else was in charge during Phase I, and that they arrive at a later point and are the highest ranking officer on scene. In each phase, there is a listing of on scene officers, pictures of the bank, and a diagram of the area. Assessees are given reports by on scene officers, as well as communications from Police Dispatch, and must formulate their strategy and tactics, detailing all actions they would take along with the purpose of each action. Assessees are given 80 minutes to complete Phase I, and 100 minutes to complete Phase II.

SCORING AND REPORTING OF RESULTS
MPS does all of the scoring for you. Results are reported in the form of a rank-ordered list of the candidates. In addition, scores are reported for Strategy, Tactics, and Anticipating Resources Needed.