NCJ Number
132944
Journal
State Peace Officers Journal Volume: 40 Issue: 2 Dated: (Summer 1991) Pages: 73-80,108-109
Date Published
1991
Length
10 pages
Annotation
Although, until recently, problems associated with drug users and drug trafficking in Texas were limited to metropolitan areas, many small police departments have recently provided their officers with SWAT training as drug-related crime has become a reality in their jurisdictions.
Abstract
These smaller agencies had thought SWAT training was unncessary because of the sense of security gained from living in a small town, the antiquated thinking of State officials and local politicians, and the lack of funding and manpower to form specialized units. SWAT training, however, is necessary for officer survival and for team development. The training focuses on history and theory, team structure, equipment recommendations, team movements, hostage negotiations, tactical shooting, command post operations, chemical agents, assault tactics, narcotic raid tactics, and liability in failure to train. When equipping a SWAT team, police departments must consider the advantages and drawbacks of weapons including sniper's rifles, shotguns, urban rifles, full- auto weapons, and entry pistols as well as supplemental gear including holsters and ammunition carriers, light sticks, gear bags, uniforms, boots, load-bearing pouches, and body armor.