SWAT

Mission

The primary mission of the Victoria Police Department SWAT Team is to save lives. Founded in the 1990s, the team routinely serves high-risk warrants and offers dignitary protection when requested. In addition, SWAT officers are trained to respond to a wide variety of situations such as officer and citizen rescues, hostage rescues, barricaded subjects, armed suicidal subjects, and crowd control situations. The team is on-call 24 hours a day and responds immediately to calls for service from any Supervisor requesting assistance.

Structure

The SWAT Team is divided into two highly skilled teams working together to achieve a common goal. The two teams are the sniper/observers and the entry team. The sniper/observer group provides visual intelligence and precision marksmanship. 

The entry team conducts pre-planned assaults involving rescues, barricaded subjects, vehicular takedowns, and high-risk incidents on public transportation. The VPD Hostage Negotiations Team works closely with the SWAT Team and consists of officers who are trained to preserve life through negotiation. The SWAT Team’s personnel have dual assignments within the department, serving as investigators, street officers, or field supervisors.

Equipment

All SWAT operators are equipped with protective gear and issued weapons. The team is also equipped with less lethal options, diversionary devices, and breaching equipment.

Selection & Training

SWAT officers are selected from volunteers within the Victoria Police Department. Officers must meet eligibility requirements before they can apply for the team. The team selection process involves an extensive testing process. 

All applicants must pass physical agility test, firearms proficiency and interview board. All SWAT Team members receive extensive training on a variety of equipment. The team trains two days every month to maintain their skill level.