SWAT: Page 13

BART Police Shooting: Aftermath

In my last column, I also asked what the BART shooting had to do with SWAT. Given the events of this past week, the revised answer is "everything."

Riot Makers

Certain elements of society strive to strategically foment rebellion and undermine police tactics.

Tragedy at Fruitvale Station

What I would ask of you is to watch the videos for yourself. It’s rare that we get to witness an event this significant as it happens and then follow it through to its conclusion. As you view the videos, try and put yourselves in the BART officer’s shoes because this type of incident could easily happen to any of us.

The Importance of SWAT Traditions

Traditions in SWAT can range from the elaborate and formal to the simple and informal, from awards banquets to preserving and enshrining the locker of a fallen comrade. Traditions are the heart and soul of all SWAT teams. If you haven’t already done so, now is the time to establish traditions for your own team.

Tis the Season for Mayhem and Madness—So Be Safe

As the year draws to a close, the holiday season is upon us. However, for some professions-notably, police, fire, military, emergency medical, etc.-the holidays are often busier than the rest of the year. Those in these professions, along with their families, understand and accept this as a fact of life.

What Does Mumbai Mean for Us? (Part 2 of 2)

Mumbai is a "shot heard round the world." It's a clear warning to law enforcement of what's headed our way sooner or later. The real question is will we or won't we be ready?

What Does Mumbai Mean for Us? (Part 1 of 2)

The Mumbai terror attack was a basic raid. It was a version of the same highly effective tactics employed by most SWAT teams, especially for multiple, simultaneous raids and searches. It was a testament to the devastating and deadly effects of stealth, surprise, shock, and speed.

How Long is Too Long to Remain in SWAT?

Arbitrary rotation has nothing to do with the job of SWAT itself. Instead, it’s about the—in my opinion, wrong—belief that staying too long in SWAT results in becoming “insular.”

Talking Strategy and Tactics

I’m a strong believer that once SWAT takes over a situation, SWAT should determine and carry out the tactics. Period. There are many horror stories where interference and micro managing resulted in bad outcomes and tragedies.

Verbal Commands

Verbal commands very often set the tone for the ultimate outcome of police encounters, including SWAT operations.

Bulletproofing SWAT

Ballistic protection has a single purpose: keeping YOU alive and injury free so you can accomplish your mission. The way I feel about the protection vs. comfort issue is protection wins every time. Period.

No Excuses: Wear Your Body Armor

I find it inconceivable that in 2008 there are so many police not wearing protective vests. Body armor needs to be considered as standard and essential as the gun, badge, and uniform.

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