Rich Webb
Owner/Master Instructor
Rich is the founder and driving force behind Blue Ethos Specialized Training. His company provides comprehensive training to both public and private entities
With 17 years of dedicated service in law enforcement, Rich has amassed a wealth of experience and expertise that spans leadership, tactical response, and training. His approach to law enforcement is deeply rooted in common sense and research-based knowledge, making him a respected figure in both his department and the broader community.
Law Enforcement Career and Leadership
Rich serves as a Police Sergeant in a metropolitan police department in Minnesota, where his leadership and operational skills are put to daily use. Over the years, he has held several pivotal roles, including:
- Active Shooter Instructor: Rich has developed and delivered critical training programs aimed at preparing law enforcement officers to effectively respond to active threat situations. His classes extend beyond the police force, providing essential knowledge to schools, churches, and commercial industries on how to safeguard their environments.
- Field Training Officer: In this role, Rich has been instrumental in shaping the careers of new officers. His guidance and mentorship ensure that recruits not only meet but exceed the rigorous standards expected of law enforcement professionals.
- Mobile Field Force Operator: As an operator in the department’s Mobile Field Force, Rich has been involved in managing large-scale public order situations, applying strategic and tactical responses to maintain safety and security.
- Crisis Hostage Negotiator: Rich is a certified negotiator, trained to handle some of the most delicate and high-stakes scenarios. His expertise in crisis negotiation reflects his ability to remain calm under pressure and find peaceful resolutions in volatile situations.
Currently, Rich oversees the department’s entire field training program, a critical component that shapes the future of law enforcement within his community. He also leads the department’s Mobile Field Force and Use of Force Programs, ensuring that officers are well-prepared to handle a wide range of operational challenges with professionalism and precision.
Heroism and Public Education
In 2014, Rich faced one of the most harrowing experiences of his career. He and his partner were involved in a shooting incident on the steps of a daycare facility. Their courageous actions during this incident were recognized with the prestigious Minnesota Chiefs of Police Medal of Honor. This event profoundly influenced Rich, inspiring him to educate the public and his fellow officers about the complex realities of officer-involved shootings. His firsthand account and insights into such critical events provide invaluable lessons on courage, decision-making, and the emotional aftermath of using lethal force.
Commitment to Professional Development and Training
Rich’s passion for training is evident in his leadership of his department’s Field Training Program. Under his guidance, the program has become a cornerstone of the department, consistently producing officers who are not only skilled and capable but also compassionate and community-focused. Rich’s dedication to training goes beyond his own department. He continually seeks opportunities to share his knowledge and skills with a broader audience, believing that well-trained officers and civilians are integral to a safer society.
A Legacy of Excellence and Community Service
Rich’s career is a testament to his commitment to excellence in law enforcement and his dedication to serving and protecting his community. Whether on the front lines as a sergeant, guiding new recruits through their initial training, or educating the public and private sectors through Blue Ethos, Rich embodies the highest standards of professionalism and integrity. His experiences and leadership continue to shape the future of law enforcement and community safety, making a profound impact on those he serves and trains.