SWAT Unit Policy

Purpose

The Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Unit provides a specialized tactical response to incidents that present a high risk to officers or the public. SWAT is intended for situations that exceed the capabilities of standard patrol operations and should only be deployed when the threat level justifies its use.

Certification Requirements

• Officers must possess a valid SWAT Certification before utilizing SWAT equipment or responding as a SWAT operator.

• SWAT-certified officers are expected to maintain proficiency in tactical movement, communication, and department use-of-force policies.

• Supervisors or High Command may suspend or revoke an officer's SWAT authorization for failure to follow department policy or demonstrate safe tactical practices.

Authorized Deployment

SWAT may only be activated during incidents where a heightened tactical response is necessary, including but not limited to:

• High-profile robberies (Fleeca, Pacific Standard, Warehouse Robberies, etc.).

• Planned search warrants or high-risk warrant services.

• Building or compound raids.

• Barricaded or fortified suspects.

• Active shooter situations.

• Incidents involving multiple heavily armed suspects.

• Any situation where Command determines a specialized tactical response is necessary.

SWAT shall not be activated for routine patrol calls, standard traffic stops, or low-risk criminal investigations.

Activation Authority

SWAT deployments should be authorized by a Supervisor, High Command member, or Incident Commander whenever practical.

Officers should not self-deploy as SWAT unless the incident clearly meets the criteria above or immediate action is necessary to preserve life.

Operational Responsibilities

When SWAT is deployed:

• SWAT assumes responsibility for tactical operations and entry planning.

• Patrol officers should establish inner and outer perimeters, manage traffic, evacuate civilians when necessary, and assist as directed by SWAT leadership.

• All officers are expected to maintain clear radio discipline and follow the direction of the Incident Commander or SWAT Team Leader.

Equipment

SWAT operators may utilize department-approved tactical equipment, including:

• Tactical uniforms

• Rifles and authorized long guns

• Ballistic shields (if available)

• Tactical breaching equipment

• Other equipment authorized by department policy

All equipment must be used in accordance with department use-of-force guidelines.

Restrictions

SWAT operators shall not:

• Deploy for routine patrol calls or standard arrests.

• Utilize SWAT equipment without authorization or certification.

• Conduct independent tactical operations without coordination with the Incident Commander.

• Escalate force beyond what is reasonable and necessary under department policy.

Supervisor Authority

Supervisors and High Command may:

• Activate or deactivate SWAT operations.

• Assign or remove SWAT personnel from an incident.

• Modify tactical objectives based on changing circumstances.

• Terminate a SWAT deployment once the incident has stabilized.

Failure to comply with this policy may result in suspension or removal of SWAT certification and/or disciplinary action in accordance with department policy.