697. Every Cop Is A Negotiator: You Have To Be Willing To Talk

Failure To Stop

Best-selling author and former police officer Eric Tansey breaks down intense body-camera footage from a Wisconsin police standoff that ended in tragedy. Early on July 26, 2024, De Pere Police responded to reports of a man armed with a rifle at the Perkofski Boat Launch. Multiple agencies—including Ashwaubenon Public Safety and the Brown County Sheriff’s Office—arrived and began crisis negotiations with the suspect, 44-year-old Scott H. McDonald.

According to the Wisconsin Department of Justice, officers tried to de-escalate the encounter, but when McDonald produced his rifle, officers from De Pere and Ashwaubenon discharged their weapons, striking him. Despite officers immediately rendering aid, McDonald was pronounced dead at the scene.

On September 17, the Brown County District Attorney announced that no law-enforcement officers will face criminal charges in connection with the shooting. Investigators confirmed all responding officers were equipped with body cameras, providing a full view of the tense standoff that night at the quiet Wisconsin park.

In this episode, Eric Tansey analyzes the critical moments leading to the fatal shot—highlighting the importance of verbal de-escalation, mental-health crisis response, and the split-second decisions officers face under extreme pressure. As a former cop and seasoned trainer, Tansey explains how the power of words can alter the outcome of a crisis, saving lives on both sides of the badge.

👉 Watch as Eric shares real-world insight into officer-involved shootings, crisis negotiation, and what every community can learn from the De Pere police standoff that shocked Wisconsin.

Keywords: De Pere police shooting, Scott McDonald Wisconsin, Eric Tansey body cam breakdown, officer-involved shooting analysis, law enforcement training, police negotiation, crisis response, Brown County District Attorney, DOJ investigation.

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