Managing Special Operations

High risk events can occur anywhere that might require the use of a special operations capability in law enforcement.  The understanding of when it is appropriate and beneficial to deploy a SWAT Team or other Special Operations function is critical.  Those who have served in tactical operations in their career may not have been exposed to executive concerns and those who have never served in a tactical role may not have a working knowledge of these units.  This course is designed to present the principles of SWAT and other Special Operations to those responsible for managing and deploying the resource.  Issues relevant to K-9, Narcotics, Street Crimes, & Gang Units are also discussed.

This is a 12 hour course presented over 1 1/2 days.  It will provide instruction on developing and managing the Special Operations function, including the selection and training of team members, training regiments, the command and control elements for Special Weapons and Tactics as well as Negotiations Teams.  The methods for instruction will include lecture and video presentations, discussion as well as desktop scenarios.  The course is designed for leaders assigned to manage these units.

At the conclusion of this course, the participant will:

1. Describe the historical development of SWAT and Negotiations in critical incidents.
2. Articulate the principles of command and control during deployments.
3. Define the role of SWAT and Negotiations in police operations.
4. Recall the legal issues associated with the deployment of these units.
5. Identify leadership points relevant to developing operational readiness.
6. Discuss some key issues involved in the management of other Special Operations functions.
7. Participate in discussions and scenarios familiarizing leaders with this function.