Above photos courtesy of Jason Herring.

A SWAT team is a designated unit of law enforcement officers that is specifically trained and equipped to work as a coordinated team to resolve critical incidents that are so hazardous, complex, or unusual that they may exceed the capabilities of first responders or investigative units including, but not limited to, hostage taking, barricaded suspects, snipers, terrorist acts and other high-risk incidents.

SWAT may also be used to serve high-risk warrants, both search and arrest, where public and officer safety issues warrant the use of such a unit.

Members of the SWAT Team are “on-call” to respond to any emergency requiring their services. This team is dedicated to the preservation of life and resolving situations peacefully.