PITTSBURGH — Trigger Warning: We would like to advise that this report discusses suicide, and some details may be distressing for viewers.
The presence of armored vehicles and SWAT teams is unmistakable in Pittsburgh. Alongside them, often unnoticed, are specially trained members of the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police.
“We’re there to offer support and listen,” stated Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Lieutenant Logan Hanley. “We respond to the emotions, acknowledge the fear or frustration someone may be experiencing, and through communication, we aim to achieve a peaceful resolution.”
Leading the department’s tactical negotiations team is Lieutenant Logan Hanley, which comprises approximately 25 individuals.
Tune in to Channel 11 at 11 tonight, where Alyssa Raymond from Channel 11 introduces us to one of these officers and the man who attributes his survival to her.
“We keep showing up because it’s our duty,” mentioned Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Detective Frank Niemiec.
Last summer, Detective Frank Niemiec arrived at a residence in Garfield neighborhood as sheriff’s deputies carried out an eviction notice.
“Regrettably, the situation on Broad Street commenced with the subject firing shots,” recounted Niemiec.
Niemiec explained that for over six hours, they attempted to establish contact with Will Hardison as he discharged thousands of rounds of ammunition.
“Throughout the entire ordeal, we were actively trying to reach him by phone,” Niemiec stated. “We aimed to engage in dialogue to resolve the situation without harm to anyone, including himself. Unfortunately, that wasn’t the outcome.”
This was just one of the 63 unforeseen incidents the tactical negotiations team responded to in 2023. Additionally, they supported SWAT in executing warrants 40 times. Hanley expressed the challenge of measuring the team’s success, as even if the individual survives, they often end up in jail or a psychiatric institution.
“We don’t see it as winning,” Hanley remarked. “It’s about the individual facing a long road ahead, but they didn’t take the irreversible step of ending their life that day, and that’s a relief. We’ve witnessed individuals commit suicide in our presence while in conversation with them. Those memories stay with you.”
Hanley emphasized the importance of trusting the negotiation process established by the FBI.
“There’s a specific approach we follow in communication, drawing from decades of crisis negotiation research and expertise nationwide,” Hanley explained.
“Beyond active listening, some techniques involve understanding that individuals in highly emotional states may struggle with rational thinking,” added Niemiec.
The negotiators delve into the individual’s background swiftly, identifying family or friends who can assist in calming their emotions.
“If we establish a connection with the person in crisis, we can guide them towards positive behavioral changes,” Niemiec elaborated. “By introducing constructive ideas, we aim to show them that there’s hope beyond the current crisis.”
Their goal is to achieve what many would consider a successful outcome.
“It’s demanding,” Niemiec acknowledged. “It can be distressing, but if not us, then who.”
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