NCJ Number
143349
Journal
Oregon Sheriff Volume: 5 Issue: 1 Dated: (April 1993) Pages: 6-7
Date Published
1993
Length
2 pages
Annotation
This article profiles the services, operational methodology, and weapons of the Douglas County Sheriff's Office (Oregon) Tactical Response Team.
Abstract
The Douglas County Tactical Response Team (TRT) serves search and arrest warrants where there is a high risk of violence. TRT is also called upon in hostage situations; to secure major crime scenes; to control crowds, strike lines, and demonstrations; to provide VIP security; and to conduct intelligence gathering and surveillance. The team usually deploys from the van; initially, one man with an automatic weapon covers the scene while the rest of the team deploys. After deployment, the first member of the team is the pathfinder, who gets the rest of the team to the scene. Once the team arrives at the door of the objective, the key man approaches with the "key" to smash open the door. Also with the key person will be an entry team person. Together they will knock and announce their authority and decide if forcible entry is required. Upon entering the building, two teams of two members each provide cover and backup for each other while clearing the building. The fifth member of the entry team covers and clears the living room area, including searching for weapons. This team member provides security in that room for all adult occupants found and handcuffed by the other teams. The article also lists the specifications of weapons used by the TRT and describes the training facilities. Photographs illustrate the team's training and operations.