Dr. Travis Norton
I provide independent analysis of law enforcement use of force and critical decision making, grounded in constitutional standards, statutory authority, and professional practice. My work focuses on evaluating officer actions based on the information reasonably available at the time of the decision, rather than hindsight or outcome driven narratives.
With over two decades of law enforcement experience, my background includes patrol operations, tactical operations, and supervisory and command staff roles. This work involved direct responsibility for use of force review, officer involved incidents, internal investigations, policy development, and department wide training.
In addition to operational and supervisory experience, I have instructed nationally on use of force, tactical leadership, less lethal weapons, and police practices, and consulted with agencies on policy development and training standards.
As an expert witness and consultant, I work with attorneys and agencies on matters involving use of force and police practices. Opinions are limited to those supported by the factual record and applicable legal standards, and I do not advocate for any party or outcome.
My approach emphasizes clarity, restraint, and analytical discipline. The purpose of the work is to explain whether actions were reasonable under the circumstances known at the time and why.
Travis is the Strategy Development Chair for the NTOA and a committee member of the NTOA Tactical Response and Operations Standard for Law Enforcement Agencies (2018 & 2023). He was selected as an active shooter SME by NPI and Safe and Sound Schools for several active shooter reviews and leads a critical incident review team for CATO. These opportunities allow Travis to review officer-involved shootings and active shooter incidents in the US and abroad.
Travis holds a doctorate in Policy, Planning and Development from USC and a master’s degree from California State University at Long Beach in Emergency Services Administration (outstanding thesis award).