Starting a Tactical Team

[gman183]

Anyone have any info on how to start a Tactical Team? I need info on selection requirements and the selection processes.

-Trevor
PC832PROF@MSN.COM

[SWATcop]

Anyone have any info on how to start a Tactical Team? I need info on selection requirements and the selection processes.

-Trevor
PC832PROF@MSN.COM
The first thing that you need to do is make sure that the agency administration and city council (or whatever governing body applies) approves the formation of such a team, because there are several cost factors involved. Not only will you need to have at least 5 or 6 officers available to be on the team, but you're going to need to equip all of those officers. You're talking thousands and thousands of dollars. Not to mention the insurance needed by your agency when you have such a team. Then there's the overtime for training, the creation of policies and procedures relating to the team, finding a medic that's crazy enough to get a law enforcement certification (you'd better have a medic on the team), and dozens of other factors that you won't think of right off the bat.

As far as the selection process (assuming that you're already approved to start the team), I would recommend a psychological evaluation of every applicant for the team (even if they've already taken one to get hired by your agency), and obviously in good physical condition, which would be proven by a strenuous physical agility test. You may also want to be diverse in your selections - try to get members with different backgrounds. Maybe one guy is cross certified as a firefighter, or an explosive ordinance technician. Military background is always a plus - especially if they've ever served in an infantry unit, security forces, or special forces. I could go on and on. Hope this helps.

[Bodie]

You're in California where tca teams were originated & perfected and you asking here ? You need to look no further then your own backyard.

[cprokesh]

We are in the final stages of creating a team at my agency in South Georgia. Emphasising what has already been said, the cost is incredible! I strongly recomend a membership with N.T.O.A. for policy and procedure needs.

[jerrymaccauley]

I second the NTOA membership for team formation guidelines. If you are still exploring the idea of a team, join the association as an officer anyway. It'll give you established guidelines that have been thoroughly researched and evaluated by active teams worldwide. ntoa ( dot org)

[18C3V]

Try this link. It's the AG for Ca regarding SWAT standards for CA.

http://ag.ca.gov/publications/swat.pdf

[jeeper]

NTOA is an incredible reference. You REALLY REALLY need to take advantage of what they can provide you if you/your agency are serious about this.

Other than that, find a local agency of comparable size to your's (or at least in your state) who has undertaken the same process in the last decade or less. See what they learned while doing it.

Let me reiterate, NTOA is an incredible reference!!!!!!!!!!