The SWAT Team responds to emergencies requiring the use of special weapons and tactics. Trained as a unit, members are assigned
to the SWAT Team, Negotiations Team, Communications Team, and the Tactical Emergency Medical Team. One or more of the teams
may be utilized, depending on the nature of the incident.
The SWAT Team consists of 25 members and is currently supervised by one Lieutenant and two sergeants. The SWAT Team was established
to handle high risk circumstances and events that are beyond the scope of a regular deputy's training, and is composed of
dedicated members who are highly trained in the use of specialized weapons, equipment, and tactical deployment. The SWAT Team is called upon when there is a hostage situation, armed suspect(s)
are barricaded in a building, during riots or civil disobedience, or in case of a high risk arrest or search. The SWAT Team
is also utilized for special events, and to provide protection for high risk transports and executive protection for visiting
dignitaries. Due to the danger involved in many of these situations, tactical plans are carefully developed to assure the
safety of deputies and our citizens.
In October 2007, the SWAT Team was recognized with the Sheriff’s Office first “Team Citation” after responding to an incident
involving armed suspects from a home invasion robbery in May 2007. The Denver Police Department pursued the suspects to the
area of Interstate 70 and Powhatton Road when their vehicle subsequently crashed. One of the suspects fled and hid in a nearby
neighborhood. The SWAT Team responded and spent over 16 hours searching for the armed suspect, who was finally located hiding
underneath a mobile home. He was successfully taken into custody without further incident or loss of life.
The Negotiations Team purpose is to establish a relationship with the suspect in an attempt to build trust and encourage a
peaceful resolution to the incident. The negotiators are trained and experienced professionals who maintain communications
with the suspect through the radio, telephone or bullhorn while formulating and implementing a negotiation plan.
The Communications Team is comprised of professionally trained and highly experienced communications technicians. They provide
complete, concise and accurate oral communications and written reports at SWAT incidents in order to provide immediate medical,
law enforcement and tactical support.
The Tactical Emergency Medical Team is currently comprised of four paramedics specially trained in the area of emergency medicine
as well as tactical operations. They are incorporated into, and train consistently with, the SWAT Team in order to respond
to calls providing immediate on scene care for team members, victims, and/or suspects as needed.
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