Tactical Operations Unit (TOU)
The Tactical Operations Unit (TOU) was formed in 1993 in support of the
Patrol and Investigations sections to resolve high-risk situations peacefully
using highly trained officers with specialized vehicles, equipment, weapons,
and tactics. The team includes an entry team, precision rifle experts,
and negotiators. Examples of situations where TOU would be used include:
· Hostage/barricaded subjects
· Service of high-risk search warrants
· Need for special or chemical weapons is necessary
· Sniper attacks
· Any high-risk situation requiring special tactics
TOU is commanded by Lieutenant Pete Smith and is led by three team leaders;
the SWAT Team Leader, Sergeant William Campbell, the Precision Rifle Team
Leader, Sergeant Benny Fisher, and the Tactical Negotiations Team (TNT)
Leader, Sergeant Steve Shippee.
Officers wishing to become members of TOU must first pass physical fitness tests, firearms qualification tests, an oral board examination, a written examination, and a psychological examination. Once chosen for the team, each candidate attends an 80-hour SWAT school and serves in a probationary capacity for one year. Each TOU member commits to five years of service to the team. In addition to the SWAT school, numerous other trainings are required for specialty areas such as precision rifle, negotiations, and chemical munitions.
On-going training for all TOU members (SWAT and TNT) includes firearms
training and a monthly training day that includes additional weapons training,
physical fitness, and special tactics training.