CD3 G.L.O.V.E.

Carlos M. Miranda is a veteran martial arts instructor, corrections professional, and tactical training innovator with over 40 years of martial arts experience and more than a decade of service within the Rhode Island Department of Corrections. He is the founder of Code Blue Tactics, a training system focused on de-escalation, control, officer safety, and community empowerment.

Carlos holds certifications in multiple law-enforcement defensive tactics systems, bringing together real-world corrections experience with structured, legally grounded training. His teaching philosophy integrates Japanese Jiu-Jitsu, traditional martial arts, modern defensive tactics, and behavioral awareness, creating a practical hybrid system applicable to corrections, policing, hospital security, and civilian self-defense.

As the creator of the Hybrid Cross System, Carlos emphasizes assessment, positioning, balance (kuzushi), distance management, and decision-making under stress, aligning training with the Use of Force Continuum while prioritizing control over harm. His approach is designed to level the playing field regardless of size, strength, or age.

Carlos is also the inventor of the SparSled training system, a multi-purpose conditioning and combatives platform, and leads community outreach programs aimed at keeping youth out of the justice system through fitness, discipline, confidence, and mentorship.

Known for his direct, disciplined teaching style and real-world experience, Carlos trains correctional officers, law enforcement, security professionals, and youth, with a mission centered on prevention, preparedness, and personal accountability.

Kevin Hopkins is a retired Lieutenant of the Rhode Island State Police, where he served with distinction for more than 20 years. Throughout his career, he demonstrated leadership, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to public safety.

During his tenure, Kevin had the privilege of working under Colonels Stone, Culhane, Pare, and Doherty. Rising through the ranks, he served as a Lieutenant and managed several high-stakes assignments, including operations at Green Airport, where he integrated his SWAT Team expertise to implement strategic improvements that enhanced both safety and efficiency.

Kevin's career was marked by involvement in some of Rhode Island's most challenging and high-profile cases. He served as the lead investigator for the Station Nightclub fire, methodically reconstructing events to uncover lessons from the tragedy. He also led the complex investigation into a SWAT sniper training accident that tragically claimed the life of a young officer. Through nearly a year of work, he pieced together evidence and testimony that resulted in the prosecution of criminal negligence.

Both experiences reinforced his commitment to rigorous training, accountability, and safety—principles that continue to guide his work today. After retiring from law enforcement, Kevin entered the mechanical contracting business, where his ability to translate leadership, investigative discipline, and problem-solving into new industries reflects his versatility and vision.

Kevin remains deeply engaged in the law enforcement and training community. He is an International Master Instructor (IMI) with APB Consulting, certified in multiple defensive tactics systems, including Compliant Technologies CD3 De-escalation program. Through his work with Legacy Group and partnerships with Code Blue Tactics Outreach Program, Kevin continues to mentor and train officers, emphasizing de-escalation, accountability, and non-lethal use-of-force solutions that keep both officers and communities safer.

Today, Kevin Hopkins stands as a respected leader whose career blends frontline experience, investigative expertise, business acumen, and a passion for training. His lifelong dedication to service reflects his belief that steady improvements, discipline, and realistic training prepare law enforcement and security professionals to meet the challenges of their work with excellence.