The Special Weapons and Tactics Team consists of two Entry Teams, a Sniper (long rifle) Team, Crisis Negotiations Team (CNT), and Tactical Dispatchers. Each team is lead by a Sergeant Team Leader. Two Reserve Police Officers also support the SWAT Team.The SWAT Team is led by a Commander who is responsible for managing all administrative duties such as budgeting, scheduling, and training for the 22 members who make up the Team.
Being on the SWAT Team is a collateral assignment, meaning that team members perform their SWAT duties in addition to their regularly assigned duties. This requires each member to have a high degree of dedication, skill, and fitness.
Each officer has undergone intensive specialized training, including attending an approved SWAT school. Officers must pass a rigorous bi-annual physical fitness qualification and regularly demonstrate proficiency with all their weaponry. These officers are highly qualified to respond to any situation that requires more than a routine police response.The Buena Park Police SWAT Team is recognized as one of the best in Orange County and regularly participates in training with other teams from throughout Southern California. The SWAT Team averages a minimum of 120 hours per year in training as a group. Individual Team members invest considerably more time in attending courses, competing in competitions, and performing demonstrations.
Because the SWAT team utilizes highly sophisticated equipment, ranging from fully automatic weapons to specialized communication devices, team members are ready and able to handle the most extreme of law enforcement situations. SWAT members are highly professional and dedicated men and women, who have made a total commitment to protecting the community of Buena Park.