Philip D. Shappy is a highly accomplished retired New York State Trooper, concluding a distinguished career that spanned more than 24 years with the New York State Police. His service also includes 8 years of military service in the Army and the Army National Guard.

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Before his retirement in January 2026, Phil served as a Technical Sergeant overseeing all Use of Force and Taser training at the NYSP Academy, and all field in-service training. During his tenure, he had a massive impact on the agency’s preparedness, leading training for over 5,000 recruits. A critical component of his curriculum involved teaching members to identify and understand the warning signs exhibited by people in the lead-up to crisis situations.

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A recognized authority in his field, Phil is an IADLEST National Certified Instructor and holds several elite certifications, including NYS DCJS Master Instructor and Taser Master Instructor. He served as the lead NYSP Use of Force Instructor and is a committed practitioner, holding a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

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Phil’s deep involvement in the Use of Force program began in 2007, culminating in being assigned leadership of the program in 2012. Throughout his career, he was the driving force in evolving the program into its current, rigorous state. He was the only member of the NYSP recognized at both the State and Federal Court levels as an expert witness and an expert in Use of Force analysis. His expertise is rooted in a comprehensive understanding of how people operate in crisis situations, drawing on personal experiences, studies, and intensive training.

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His commitment to continuous professional development is evidenced by the numerous advanced certification courses he has attended. These include the Force Science Institute's Certification Course and Advanced Specialist in the Behavioral Analysis of Force Encounters Course, the FLETC Use of Force Instructor Training Program, and the DCJS Reality-Based Instructor Trainer Course. As a nationally recognized instructor, Phil is well-suited to deliver your organization or agency's From Crisis to Calm® course.