Special Weapons And Tactics
In October, 1994, the Parkersburg Police Department established a S.W.A.T. Unit (Special Weapons and Tactics).
This unit is used to handle unusual situations. Among these are high risk warrant service, stand-offs, dignitary protection, searches for people, evidence, etc.
The officers involved are volunteers from the various bureaus. In line with the variety of assignments the team handles, the officers have received training in areas not normally associated with tactical teams. Among these are man tracking, land navigation, dealing with Alzheimer's patients, and first aid. Other training of more traditional nature includes firearms, unarmed self-defense, hostage negotiations, rappelling, etc.
Training
Unit members have received training from the F.B.I., D.E.A., A.T.F., U.S. Army Special Forces, Metro Dade SWAT, Ohio Highway Patrol S.R.T., and the Secret Service. The officers on the team are volunteers from various divisions. They receive no additional pay for this very demanding and dangerous assignment.
Members have specialized equipment issued to them and are prepared to respond quickly when they are needed. Volunteers are tested periodically to fill vacancies caused by promotion, reassignment, etc.
