About the SBI Academy
The SBI Academy is a testament to the vision and dedication of retired LAPD detective Ninette Toosbuy, a trailblazer in investigative interviewing. With a wealth of experience gleaned from nearly 25 years within the LAPD, Toosbuy recognized a pressing need for first-rate, cutting-edge training in interview and interrogation techniques for law enforcement professionals.
Driven to empower investigators with the knowledge, skills, and ethical framework necessary for success, Toosbuy founded the SBI Academy. Drawing from her own experiences and expertise, she curated a curriculum that not only reflects the latest advancements in investigative practices grounded in science, psychology, and evidence-based methodologies but also has a transformative impact on the professional growth of law enforcement professionals.
Central to the mission of the SBI Academy is an unwavering commitment to effectiveness and ethics. Toosbuy understands that while the ultimate goal of law enforcement is the pursuit and apprehension of lawbreakers, this must be achieved within the bounds of ethical conduct and respect for human rights. Through rigorous training and education, the Academy not only equips law enforcement professionals with the tools to achieve their objectives but also instills a deep understanding and respect for fairness, integrity, and justice principles.
At the core of the SBI Academy's philosophy lies a profound understanding of the dynamic interplay between crime, technology, evolving laws, and society's expectations of law enforcement. Ninette Toosbuy recognizes that effective interrogation techniques must evolve in unison with these shifting landscapes to meet the demands of an ever-changing world.
As societal norms and expectations of law enforcement continue to evolve, there is a growing emphasis on accountability, transparency, and respect for individual rights. The public's scrutiny of law enforcement practices has never been greater. Toosbuy recognizes the imperative for interrogators to operate within a framework that upholds the highest ethical standards while effectively pursuing justice.
To address these challenges, the SBI Academy remains steadfast in its commitment to staying at the forefront of developments in investigative interviewing. By continuously monitoring advancements in the social sciences and changes in legislation, the Academy ensures that its training programs remain relevant and adapt to the evolving landscape of crime and law enforcement, instilling confidence in its effectiveness and relevance.
Through ongoing research, collaboration with experts, and the integration of cutting-edge techniques and technologies, the SBI Academy equips law enforcement professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate complex investigative scenarios effectively. It incorporates principles of empathy and rapport-building into interactions with suspects.
The SBI Academy seeks to cultivate a new generation of investigators proficient in the technical aspects of investigative interviewing and possess a deep understanding of the ethical considerations underpinning their work. By instilling a culture of accountability and integrity, the Academy aims to foster a law enforcement community that is effective in its pursuit of justice and is trusted and respected by the communities it serves.
The SBI Academy's commitment to staying abreast of developments in criminal investigations, technology, law, and societal expectations reflects Ninette Toosbuy's unwavering dedication to excellence and integrity in investigative interviewing. By embracing change and innovation, the Academy ensures that law enforcement professionals are equipped to meet the challenges of today's rapidly evolving landscape while upholding the principles of justice, fairness, and respect for individual rights.
About Ninette Toosbuy
Ninette Toosbuy is a distinguished figure in law enforcement, renowned for her expertise in investigative interviewing and sexual assault investigations and her unwavering commitment to justice. With nearly a quarter-century of service within the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), Toosbuy's career trajectory has been marked by a relentless pursuit of truth and a dedication to advancing the field of interrogation practices.
Beginning her illustrious career as a police officer, Toosbuy quickly distinguished herself as a formidable investigator. For 16 years, she served as a detective within the LAPD, specializing in the intricate and often sensitive domain of sex crimes investigation. Her tenure in this capacity was not only characterized by a steadfast dedication to victims but also by an unwavering determination to seek out truth and hold perpetrators accountable. Her leadership as the head of the sex crimes unit underscored her commitment to seeking justice for the most vulnerable members of society.
Toosbuy's impact, however, extends far beyond her casework. Recognizing the critical importance of effective interview and interrogation techniques, she assumed the role of lead instructor for the LAPD, where she played a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of law enforcement officers. Drawing from her extensive experience and expertise, she developed cutting-edge curricula tailored to the evolving landscape of investigative practices, laying the foundation for a new era of interrogation practices within the department.
Education has always been a cornerstone of Toosbuy's professional ethos. Armed with a Bachelor's degree in History from UCLA, she brought a multidisciplinary perspective to her work, understanding the complex interplay of societal forces and historical contexts that underpin criminal behavior. This foundation was further solidified by a Master's degree in National Security Studies from California State University, positioning her as a formidable force in understanding the intricacies of security and justice.
One of the defining moments in Toosbuy's career came with her training at the High-Value Interrogation Group (HIG). This pivotal experience served as a catalyst for a profound transformation in interrogation methodologies. Drawing from the latest advancements in science and psychology, she spearheaded the transition from confrontational interrogations to science-based interviewing techniques within the LAPD, championing ethical and evidence-based approaches to extracting information from suspects.
What sets Toosbuy apart from many other instructors in the field is her dual role as both educator and practitioner. Unlike those who solely teach theory without practical experience, Toosbuy brings a wealth of firsthand knowledge gleaned from her years on the frontlines of law enforcement. She has not only developed curricula but has also applied SBI techniques in real cases during her tenure with the LAPD, lending her teachings a depth and authenticity unmatched by her peers.
Toosbuy's commitment to excellence extends beyond her role within the LAPD. Over the past decade, she has traveled across the country, sharing her expertise with law enforcement agencies, universities, and non-profit organizations. Her presentations serve as a bridge between academic research and real-world application, empowering practitioners with the tools and knowledge needed to conduct ethical and effective interviews.
Furthermore, Toosbuy's dedication to lifelong learning is a testament to her commitment to excellence. Her ongoing education in the field of investigative interviewing ensures that her teachings remain relevant and informed by the best available evidence, providing a reassuring sense of continuous improvement in the field.
As an expert consultant on police interview and interrogation practices, Toosbuy occupies a unique position at the intersection of academia, law, and law enforcement. Her insights into the dynamics of police-induced false confessions have been instrumental in ensuring that justice is not only served but also safeguarded.
In essence, Ninette Toosbuy embodies the ethos of a lifelong learner, a compassionate advocate for victims, and a steadfast champion of justice. Ninette Toosbuy's illustrious career is a testament to the transformative power of expertise, dedication, and a steadfast commitment to justice and serves as an inspiration for law enforcement professionals committed to serving with integrity and upholding the principles of fairness and equity.