SWAT

SWAT stands for Special Weapons And Tactics.  This unit is highly-trained and provides 24/7 response to:

  • barricaded persons
  • active shooting scenes
  • high risk search warrants
  • crowd control during large-scale disturbances or riots
  • sniper incidents
  • terrorism threats

Much of what SWAT does is support other units and agencies. SWAT is often called out to support: 

  • Investigations or patrol on high risk scenes
  • SPD's Hostage Negotiation Team
  • Security and protection for visiting dignitaries and heads of state
  • Regional law enforcement agencies who do not have SWAT trained officers on staff

TRAINING and SKILLS SWAT members are chosen for their discipline, skill set, and physical and mental fitness.  They train rigorously on a weekly basis to keep their skills sharp.  Many SWAT officers are experts in certain skills, so they also act as instructors for their peers.  Their areas of expertise include: 

  • Crisis Intervention
  • Hostage Negotiation
  • De-Escalation
  • Tasers
  • Other Less Lethal Weapons
  • Rappelling
  • Rifle Marksmanship

Police

Adrian Diaz, Chief of Police
Address: 610 5th Avenue, Seattle, WA, 98104-1900
Mailing Address: PO Box 34986, Seattle, WA, 98124-4986
Phone: (206) 625-5011
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The Seattle Police Department (SPD) prevents crime, enforces laws, and supports quality public safety by delivering respectful, professional, and dependable police services. SPD operates within a framework that divides the city into five geographical areas called "precincts".