Duties & Responsibilities
The Liberal Police Department Special Response Team (SRT) was implemented in 1999 in order to be better prepared for crisis situations involving drug abuse and violent crimes.
The SRT, also known as a Special Weapons and Tactics Unit (SWAT), has the primary responsibility of resolving difficult police situations outside the realm of the ordinary patrol response through the use of developed skills, tactics, and specialized equipment/capabilities.
Training & Qualifications
All must volunteer for outside of his/her regular duty assignment. In order to be accepted to the SRT, officers must complete a physical agility testing process, firearms proficiency test, and an interview. If the applicant successfully completes the testing procedures, final approval and appointment to the SRT is at the discretion of the Chief of Police. Once accepted to the SRT, officers are required to attend SWAT School and must attend monthly team training.
The SRT members have had the opportunity to travel as far as Florida and California to receive the specialized training required to function in these crisis situations.
Staff
The Liberal Police Department SRT consists of 12 tactical team members and 2 negotiators.