CATHY KNAPE
Training Coordinator
PORAC

The 2026 PORAC Symposium on April 22–23 in Temecula will offer a forward-looking, two-day training experience focused on the evolving realities of public safety. Designed to address the challenges of modern policing, Symposium 2026 brings together legal experts, clinicians and experienced practitioners to examine the complex issues shaping today’s peace officers and public safety professionals. The program reflects PORAC’s ongoing commitment to education that is relevant, practical and grounded in real-world experience.

At the forefront of this year’s program is artificial intelligence and its expanding role in law enforcement. Sessions focused on AI, deepfakes and the legal ramifications of emerging technology will explore how digital manipulation, synthetic media and rapidly evolving legal standards are affecting investigations, evidence handling, public trust and courtroom proceedings. As technology continues to advance, these sessions will help attendees better understand the opportunities and risks of artificial intelligence and its impact on policing.

Symposium 2026 also addresses some of the profession’s most challenging and sensitive realities. Sessions on suicide by cop, trauma recovery and officer wellness will examine the psychological, operational and investigative aspects of critical incidents. These discussions are designed to provide insight into the long-term effects of trauma and to offer practical strategies that support resilience, recovery and sustainable wellness throughout an officer’s career.

A strong emphasis will be placed on peer support and first responder addiction, highlighting evidence-based approaches to mental health care, early intervention and the development of effective support systems within agencies. Attendees will learn how structured peer support programs, legislative protections and wellness-focused frameworks can help reduce long-term risks such as PTSD, substance misuse and burnout. These sessions reinforce the importance of proactive wellness efforts at both the individual and organizational levels. Together, these topics reflect PORAC’s continued commitment to protecting not only officer safety, but also officer well-being — recognizing that healthy officers are essential to effective policing and strong communities.

The program also confronts the growing legal and cultural pressures facing law enforcement today. Sessions addressing anti-bias and anti-law-enforcement narratives will explore community trust, public perception and the increasingly complex environment in which officers operate. In addition, legislative update sessions will ensure members remain informed about laws, policies and legal developments that directly affect their rights, responsibilities and professional futures.

Two in-depth case studies anchor the legal and accountability-focused training at Symposium 2026. One examines a case involving decertification and termination for dishonesty, providing insight into administrative investigations, due process and the serious career consequences that can result. The second walks participants through an officer-involved shooting that led to manslaughter charges, offering a rare, real-world analysis of criminal prosecution, external pressures and decision-making under intense scrutiny.

Together, these sessions form a comprehensive and balanced program that reflects the realities of modern policing — where technology, law, wellness, accountability and community expectations intersect daily.

PORAC Symposium 2026 is more than a training event. It is a professional gathering focused on preparing members for the future, strengthening leadership, protecting officers’ rights and supporting the overall well-being of those who serve.

Through education, dialogue and shared experience, Symposium 2026 continues PORAC’s mission to equip its members with the knowledge, tools and support systems needed to lead with integrity, resilience and confidence in an increasingly complex world.