What is the Force Science™ Research Center?

The FSRC was launched in 2004 by Executive Director Bill Lewinski, PhD, a specialist in police psychology, to conduct unique lethal-force experiments. The non-profit FSRC, based at Minnesota State University-Mankato, uses sophisticated time-and-motion measurements to document—for the first time—critical hidden truths about the physical and mental dynamics of life-threatening events, particularly officer-involved shootings. Its startling findings profoundly impact on officer training and safety and on the public’s naive perceptions.

What is "Force Science™"?

It’s the application of unbiased scientific principles and processes in repetitive physical experiments designed to determine the true nature of suspect provocation and officer response (action-reaction dynamics). FSRC’s ground-breaking, reproducible studies address real problems encountered by officers on the street and are meticulously documented.

What subjects has FSRC investigated?

The list grows constantly as funding becomes available to explore new topics. Already researchers have destroyed myths and discovered cold facts about some of the most controversial force issues, including: • How threatening suspects can end up shot in the back by well-trained officers making valid, lawful shooting decisions. • Why officers continue to fire “extra” rounds in high-adrenalin confrontations, even after the threat has ended. • What popular tactics used by some officers trying to reduce lag time actually put the officers at greater risk.

How can FSRC help you?

In addition to being a subscriber to the Force Science™ News newsletter which will help you stay up-to-date with our practical, cutting-edge research, FSRC’s scientific research can help with complex I.A. investigations, grand jury hearings, civil suits, criminal cases, department use-of-force audits, training scenarios and other challenging situations where professional insights based on FSRC research projects are needed.

Who can benefit from FSRC?

Resources offered by FSRC are essential if you are: a law enforcement trainer, admin-istrator or line officer…use-of-force investigator, PIO or police union rep…judge, prosecutor or police attorney in criminal cases, civil suits or administrative hearings…medical examiner or coroner…military tactician, or other professional involved in force matters.