Methodology
As an expert witness in police practices, Gregory G. Gilbertson bases his analysis and opinions on a methodical review of objectively reliable evidence. This may include crime scene photographs, crime lab reports, medical records, autopsy reports, police reports, use-of-force reports, body-worn camera footage, surveillance video, deposition transcripts, officer statements, and witness statements.
Each case is evaluated based on the totality of the facts and circumstances. The analysis may also consider the officer’s employment history, training, education, agency policies and procedures, and applicable national police standards and practices.
With a combined 38 years of education, training, police, investigative, and teaching experience in criminal justice, Mr. Gilbertson applies his knowledge to matters involving police practices, use of force, false arrest, officer misconduct, criminal casework, and self-defense. He has consulted on more than 220 cases across 42 states.
Mr. Gilbertson also reviews relevant state and federal statutes, court rulings, academic research, reputable news sources, and other reliable materials when appropriate. Although he is not an attorney and does not provide legal opinions, he may reference applicable statutes and case law as part of his professional analysis.
His background includes service as a retired professor of criminal justice, university lecturer, former police officer, international police trainer, guardian ad litem, and licensed private investigator. As part of his casework, he may interview plaintiffs, defendants, officers, witnesses, or other involved parties when appropriate.
Mr. Gilbertson’s international policing experience also informs his expert witness work. He served as an international police trainer and mentor in Iraq and Afghanistan, where he worked alongside police professionals from the United Kingdom, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, France, Canada, Italy, and Norway. These assignments focused on helping national police forces transition away from militarized policing models and toward democratic policing practices grounded in de-escalation and respect for human rights.
When evaluating agency policies and procedures, Mr. Gilbertson may compare them to model policies and guidance published by respected professional organizations, including the International Association of Chiefs of Police Model Policy Center.
Mr. Gilbertson does not base his opinions on scientific or technical expertise outside his field. He does not claim education or training in scientific, medical, or technical disciplines and relies on qualified experts in those areas when scientific evidence or human factors are involved.
Unlike some police practices experts, Mr. Gilbertson does not offer opinions on human factors that may have influenced an officer’s perceptions, judgment, or actions in use-of-force scenarios. In his view, such opinions should be reserved for properly qualified professionals with advanced education and experience in relevant fields such as medicine, anatomy, physiology, psychology, psychiatry, neurology, ophthalmology, audiology, engineering, or ergonomics.