The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office SWAT Team is a multi-agency tactical team which is not only made up of deputies from the Sheriff's Office but also from Parker and Lone Tree Police Departments. The team was established in 1984 to meet the special policing issues of a rapidly growing community. The team structure includes an Operations Commander, Tactical Commander, and Team Leader. The team includes entry elements, K-9 elements, sniper elements, and a paramedic unit. This SWAT paramedic concept has been an integral part of this unit since 1986. The first of its kind in Colorado, the SWAT paramedic concept is now being emulated by others finding paramedic members a distinct advantage.

The team’s missions range from high risk warrant service, executive / dignitary protection details, drug raids, and fugitive apprehension, to barricaded gunmen, hostage situations, and active shooter scenarios. The team is trained in and equipped with specialized weapons and equipment. The team has special training and experience in interior building assaults in office complexes, schools, and shopping centers.

Team members are required to maintain high physical standards and weapons proficiency, both of which are regularly tested. Internal file reviews ensure that all members are maintaining high evaluation scores and good work practices. Team members are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and are able to respond immediately from their location to any call-outs or incidents. The majority of the team members are issued take-home cars for efficiency in response and availability of equipment.

The SWAT team is supported by a six-person negotiations unit including one Parker Police officer negotiator. The negotiators are responsible for providing a non-lethal approach to ending volatile situations. They also provide intelligence support and, when needed, manpower assistance at SWAT call-outs. By working and training together, the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office SWAT Team has developed an experienced, efficient, highly effective unit capable of providing the response and service needed to keep our communities safe.