What do field training officers (FTOs) primarily do in law enforcement?

Field training officers (FTOs) primarily mentor and train new recruits in law enforcement, guiding them through the practical application of the skills and knowledge they gained during their initial training. The primary focus of FTOs is to ensure that new officers are effectively integrated into the police force and that they understand the department's policies, procedures, and expectations.

Through on-the-job training, FTOs provide crucial feedback and conduct evaluations of the recruits' performance, helping to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world law enforcement practices. This role is essential for fostering competent and confident officers who can operate autonomously while maintaining public safety.

In contrast, investigating complaints against officers, conducting traffic stops, and managing police departments, while critical aspects of a law enforcement career, are not the primary responsibilities of FTOs. Those tasks typically fall under the jurisdiction of other specialized roles within the police force.