Mercer County S.W.A.T.

S. W. A. T.

The Mercer County Sheriff's Department Special Weapons and Tactics (S.W.A.T) team is responsible for handling high-risk tactical operations involving barricaded suspects, hostage situations and high-risk warrant services. In addition, it provides security for any operation necessary, such as dignitaries, politicians or crime victims. Commanders can request the unit to do special operations for crime problems if needed.

The unit is highly trained in tactics and in specialized skills that are necessary for the missions that they are called for. The unit works closely with other agencies' tactical units with regard to training and missions.

The unit has trained marksmen and entry teams for situations that call for a solution to an armed response. The unit is also comprised of a hostage negotiation unit that is trained in resolving potentially violent situations through verbal communications.

Members of the unit train throughout the year on all skills needed.

The mission of the Special Weapons and Tactics team is to resolve all conflicts in a peaceful manner without injury to all involved if possible for the safety of the citizens of Mercer County.