1. 1. SHERIFF'S OFFICE EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM TRAINING PROGRAM DRAFT OBJECTIVE: Team callouts or activations show the need for SERT to be able to most frequently perform search warrants and respond to barricade situations where a hostage may be involved, these incidents were the predominant situations where SERT was activated. Since these two situations were the most frequently seen on callouts they are to be the focus of the most training. The operational guidelines listed in this draft are meant to be for training, and have the ability to be modified for a particular event. However they will serve as the teams template for how to train to handle certain scenarios. **RESOURCES: NTOA; Tactical Response magazine; Arlington Police Dept., VA; FBI WFO section, Alexandria Police Dept., VA; H&K International Training Division; Oxnard Police Dept., CA.**
2. 2. NEW MEMBER TRAINING: New team members shall be given copies of lesson plans and guidelines for how we train to deal with particular tactical situations. New team members shall be assigned to shadow senior team member(s). The team leaders or assistant team leaders if possible should take on this task. The job of the veteran team member is to teach the tactics we use and monitor the progress of the new team member. New team members shall be given all operational guidelines available and should familiarize themselves with each one. On a monthly basis the team leader/asst. team leader will evaluate the new member and test any skills and abilities shown to need attention. TRAINING: Training shall begin each day with a detailed briefing, whenever feasible. The briefing should include the training topics, the training broken down to its basic elements and any special considerations or needs, a timetable of the days events and safety issues. Training will be conducted from lesson plans or guidelines submitted ahead of time to the team commander or a certified general instructor. Training will be explained in detail in the classroom, then performed slow for form, and progressing to normal speed. (Some topics will become familiar and may not need to be as detailed). The need for this way of training is as important for new members as well as veteran team members. All training will be performed in full gear with helmets on whenever possible. Every attempt should be made to vary our training locations utilizing different types of locations. Listed below are the areas of focus for training. They are listed in relation to the frequency they are needed.
3. 3. TACTICAL OPERATION TYPES 1. Search Warrants- normally of residences, single family and townhouses but there is also a need to train at businesses, large open lots (old Jacksons junk yard), high rise buildings, hotels, bars, etc... 2. Barricaded subject(s) and hostage rescue situations. 3. Suicidal subject(s). 4. Vehicle takedowns (buy busts) to include bus assaults. The County now has transportation systems that use several buses to transport people across the County (7 to 7 bus, school buses to name a few). The possibility is there that an active shooter or suicidal subject could be involved with any number of modes of public or private transport is present. 5. Rural movement and area searches. 6. Active shooters which can encompass any imaginable building, area or terrain. TEAM SKILLS The list of team skills below was compiled to show how the team would need to train by focusing on the skills in order of the frequency they are needed. 1. Covert approaches/stalking 2. Dynamic Entries 3. Breaching 4. Officer down/shielded rescue/sniper cover 5. Communications (shots fired, suspect in custody etc...) 6. Less lethal weapons 7. Hostage Rescue 8. Exigent Entry/secondary/compromised 9. Sniper initiated assaults 10.Slow and deliberate / covert searches 11.Covered pile drill 12.Throw phone delivery 13.Vehicle assaults/bus assaults 14.Rural movement/open area movement 15.Active shooter/immediate action teams 16.Team movement communications
4. 4. FIREARMS TRAINING Safety in firearms training is the primary concern. There is a distinct need for tactical officers to be able to handle firearms safely. Firearms are an integral part of our arsenal and are used most frequently during high stress situations. Training and history shows that with physical and emotional stress comes a physical breakdown of fine motor skills. Many training and real world accidents have occurred because of poor safety and weapons handling skills, the basics are just that, core lessons used to train the shooter to adhere to basic safety rules in order to lessen the event of an unintentional discharge. As Tactical officers we shall hold ourselves to a higher standard, both in training, actual operations and during our normal job assignments. Any safety violations at SERT training or outside of SERT may be investigated and result in repercussions to include suspension or removal as a SERT member. The second concern is weapon proficiency. Shooting accurately utilizes fine motor skills and a keen sense of awareness from the shooter. If we train to handle our firearms correctly every time we train, we build the muscle memory needed to overcome stress-related failures. Firearms proficiency is a perishable skill, meaning it will degrade over time if practice is not performed correctly and on a consistent basis. Therefore firearms training will be conducted at particular intervals in order to maintain the appropriate level of proficiency.
5. 5. FIREARMS SAFETY OPERATIONAL GUIDELINES Prior to any firearms training the team will assemble in the range classroom or other designated area, A thorough briefing will be given for the days activities to include any and all safety considerations, a firearms instructor(s) will be present during all live fire training. These are the four cardinal rules of firearm safety: 1. Always treat all firearms as if they are loaded 2. Never point a firearm at anything you are not willing to destroy. 3. Always keep your finger off the trigger and outside the trigger guard until on target and ready to fire. 4. Be sure of your target and what is beyond. There will be no exceptions to these safety rules. All firearm courses are conducted with eye and ear protection, since we wear helmets on operations it is preferable to wear the helmet with good quality earplugs Team members shall be given the command to stand on line together facing in a safe direction. The command to load weapons will be given by the firearms instructor in charge. When all weapons are loaded the range will be hot until the command is given to stand on line together and unload. It will be each individual team members responsibility to follow the laser rule and ensure the weapon is on safe when not in use. There are no exceptions to these procedures. Any SERT member found not following the cardinal rules of firearm safety shall be warned once verbally and any major or subsequent rule violations shall be brought to the appropriate Team Leader(s) or the SERT Commanders attention if they are unavailable. When dry-fire or simunitions/paintball training is conducted, all team members will line up on command prior to the start of training with all weapons unloaded, bolts/slides/actions open and have no ammo, magazines, edged weapons, pepper spray or ASP on there persons. Instructor(s) of the day and team leaders will be conducting the checks and then be checked themselves by the team members.
6. 6. Search Warrants/High Risk Warrant Service Summary: Preparation for serving search warrants and high risk warrants (homicide etc) should be conducted using all the resources available. We should be obtaining standard information and conducting our own surveillance of the target location employing a sniper team prior to and during each operation. Tactics: A team member will meet with the handling case investigator for background information. The team member will attempt to gather as much information as possible from the investigator and determine whatever additional intelligence is necessary. A copy of the warrant and affidavit should be obtained whenever possible. A team member will ensure the warrant is valid and the location is accurate. When possible team member(s) will scout the primary location and the immediate area. The team member(s) will diagram the location based on information obtained from the scouting mission, available floor plans, and information from officers and or informants. When possible the location should be photographed and videotaped whenever possible. Scouting missions must be covert and carried out in a manner, which does not compromise the operation. No contact will be made at the location with residents, neighbors, or property managers without consulting with the case investigator. The SERT Commander or his designated team leader will develop a comprehensive plan to serve the warrant including secondary entry point(s) if available. Prior to briefing the team involved in the actual warrant service a sniper and scout will be sent to the target location to provide pre-raid surveillance and long rifle support in case of an emergency during the raid. The focus of the plan should be on safety. It should ensure that the team makes a safe entry into the building and is able to dominate and control any suspects. The use of diversionary devices, multiple entry points, and other equipment may be appropriate to support the entry. The plan should be based on the size and layout of the location, anticipated obstacles facing the team, the number of occupants, and any factors that may increase or decrease the risk level. Depending on the time and severity/risk of the situation the entry team should rehearse their movements using the anticipated layout of the building. The first rehearsal should be a walk through and the final rehearsal should be at full operational speed. All specialized equipment needed for the warrant service should be used in the rehearsal. The plan should include a secondary point of entry when possible. The secondary point of entry should be briefed just as thoroughly as the primary point of entry.
7. 7. If possible the plan should include a secondary entry team made up of specific perimeter personnel. The plan should include routes to the command post, staging areas, the primary location, and the medivac location. Perimeter positions should be established to prevent the escape of any suspects. The perimeter positions will also prevent any additional people from entering the area. The team will brief the operational plan and ensure that each team member is familiar with his/her assignment and equipment. Each team member should verbalize his/her particular assignment. Following every warrant a detailed diagram of the buildings interior to include photos should be made. Information about occupants and other details should be included. The diagram and information should be dated and filed by address and kept on the SERT van to be used if another call is made to the same location.
8. 8. Sniper/Marksman The Sniper/Marksman will be used on most call-outs and should be used on every search warrant or high risk warrant service. They should deploy as soon as possible upon arriving on scene. The immediate deployment of snipers serves two purposes. They will gather intelligence and provide the capability of precision rifle fire. The sniper/marksman consists of team members trained in marksmanship, stalking, and observation techniques. The primary weapons of the rifle team are the Remington 700, .308 bolt action, scoped rifle and should be accompanied by a secondary weapon (eg: Colt M4 style .223 semi- automatic rifle). This combination provides the capability of long range precision accuracy and sustained long range fire if necessary. The sniper/marksman will normally deploy in pairs. The pair consists of a primary marksman and a primary observer. Both are equally qualified and share the duties of marksman and observer to help reduce fatigue on long operations. The marksman and observer will find a position that offers a good observation point, is within the effective range of their weapons, provides cover and concealment, offers a stable shooting position, and has an appropriate field of fire. The duties of the primary marksman include: Provide suspect and location descriptions and updated intelligence on the suspects actions. Cover the main exit or other assigned area to prevent an escape. Provide cover for the arrest team, the scouting mission, and the entry team. Neutralize a dangerous suspect if he presents a threat of death or great bodily injury. And provide diversionary fire if needed. The duties of the primary observer include: Assist marksman with equipment. Handle radio communications. Provide security for the primary marksman. Keep notes of the suspects description and actions. Relieve the primary marksman to reduce fatigue. Provide diversionary fire if needed. Call any shot made by the primary marksman. Tactical Language: The sniper/marksman must know their mission. They normally deploy immediately upon arrival at the scene and may not have the most current information available. As the situation changes and the commander gathers intelligence from many different sources, he may change the mission of the long rifle team. To avoid any misunderstanding and confusion, the commander may use specific orders. The snipers will acknowledge these orders over radio communications.
9. 9. Sniper Initiated Assault A sniper-initiated assault can be an effective tool if all team members understand the fundamentals and coordinate their efforts. There should be two sniper teams dedicated to each suspect. The two teams should be set up in an L formation with their lines of fire at 90 degrees from each other. Each rifle team may be limited to a single shot. All rifle teams should have direct radio communication with the long rifle controller. All team members must maintain strict radio discipline. The team leader will advise the team members what the signal will be to begin the assault. The signal may be the report from the precision shot or it may be verbal over radio communications. The verbal command will be, assault, assault, assault. After the commander advises he has an opportunity situation, The command will be I have control, I have control, I have control. The commander will provide a cadence over radio communications to coordinate the simultaneous shots. The cadence will be, five, four, three, two, one. The sniper team must be well disciplined and ready to stand down at any time. The stand down command may even be given at any time. If a sniper observes a compromise situation where a life is in immediate danger, he will advise, compromise, compromise, compromise, and take a precision shot if appropriate. The observer will then report the shot over radio communications. The communications must be clear and concise(i.e. sniper shot away, suspect down.)If there is a misfire, the observer will immediately report it over radio communications. The entry team leader will then decide if entry should be made.
10. 10. Building labels Summary: This system is a manner by which a buildings exterior sides, doors and windows, can be labeled in a systematic manner that does not rely on compass direction. This system is designed to be simple, to be easily remembered and to prevent confusion amongst team members while communicating about the exterior of the building. Tactics: The exterior sides of the building will be numbered starting with 1, which will be the front of the building, and then running clockwise around the building. Generally, the front of the building will be easily recognized, but in those cases where it is not, the perimeter team will designate which side is actually the 1 side and the numbering rotation will remain the same. Corners of the building will be referred to as the 1-2 corner, the 2-3 corner, the 3-4 corner, and the 1-4 corner. This refers to the corner between the two numbered sides (refer to diagram on page 2). Openings on the side of the building, such as doors and windows, will be designated by a letter, starting with the letter A, and running from left to right. These letters will be prefixed with the building side number. For example, the first window on the 1 side, starting from the left side, will be window 1A. The next window to the right will be window 1B. The door will be door 1C and, if there is another window to the right of the door, it will be numbered window 1d. When describing windows on the 2 side, the lettering starts over with the letter A. If there were two windows on the 2 side, they would be window 2A and window 2B. Likewise, on the 3 side, openings would start with 3A and continue upward alphabetically. In the event of a two-story structure, the second floor windows will be referred to as upper and the first floor windows as lower. For instance, if there were two windows on the ground floor of the 2 side and two windows on the second floor, the lower floor windows would be referred to as 2A lower and 2B lower. The second floor windows would be referred to as 2A upper and 2B upper. In the event of a building with three or more floors, the floor number will follow the window designation, such as 2A third, 2A fourth, 2A fifth, etc.
11. 11. Building Labels Diagram 3 SIDE 2-3 CORNER 3-4 CORNER 3C 3B 3A 2A 2 SIDE 4 SIDE 4A 2B Window Door Window Window 1A 1B 1C 1D 1-2 CORNER 1-4 CORNER 1 SIDE Street BL2
12. 12. BLANKETED HOSTAGE RESCUE / COVERED PILE SUMMARY: This technique is an option for use when a suspect attempts to move from one location to another, usually to a vehicle, by using hostages for protection and a blanket to conceal the exact location of the suspect within the group. The technique is designed to provide a stealth approach to the group, a distraction while the concealment is removed, and immediate identification and neutralization of the suspect. TACTICS: The technique is designed to be executed by a minimum of four team members, with six being ideal. The team members form a single file line and approach the hostage/suspect group as a unit. All team members remain on the same side of the group in order to reduce the possibility of crossfire. As the line of team members approach, the lead team member (point) deploys a light/sound diversionary device at the feet of the group. The leading two team members then grab the blanket and pull it off of the group by continuing to move away from the group in the same direction the group had been traveling. The remaining team, then focus on immediately locating and neutralizing the suspect, using deadly force if necessary. If identification of the suspect cannot be quickly established, all persons in the group should be immediately forced to the ground and immobilized until such identification can be made
13. 13. OFFICER DOWN / OFFICER RESCUE SUMMARY: To provide a response to a downed officer during a SWAT entry that would provide for cover fire for the evacuation of the injured officer and his/her rescuers. TACTICS: In the event that an officer is wounded by gunshot or other trauma that renders him/her immobile, the Officer(s) nearby will shout that the Officer is down. Two officers will position themselves in front of the downed officer to provide cover fire. If there are not two officers ahead of the downed officer, then the necessary number will move ahead of the downed officer. The officer closest to the downed officer, behind the two cover officers, will grab the downed officer and pull him/her to a position of safety, where evacuation from the building can then be planned, if necessary. If the officer is downed by gunfire and the suspect's location is known, controlled cover fire will be directed to the location that the suspect was last seen to prevent the suspect from reappearing while the rescue is being effected. Cover officers should coordinate their fire to avoid reloading at the same time. The suspect's location should be broadcast as soon as possible as other team members in other locations may not have seen what occurred. Once the downed officer has been moved to a position of safety, cover officers should continue to "lock down" the suspect's location until a medical evacuation of the injured officer can be accomplished. Once the medivac is accomplished, the entry team leader will direct further penetration of the building by the entry team as necessary The team leader may call in a secondary entry team, as needed.
14. 14. SHIELD RESCUE Summary: This technique is an option for effecting the outdoor rescue of a downed officer or citizen who is in the line of fire of the suspect and the victims location is such that a rescue by vehicle is not possible. Although there will still be considerable risk to all involved in the rescue, it is designed to minimize exposure and coordinate the efforts of the rescuers. Tactics: This technique is designed for use outdoors, ideally with eight (8) Officers. The officers form in two columns of four (4). The columns align shoulder to shoulder as they approach the victim. Upon reaching the victim, the first officer in the column calls split and the columns will separate just enough to avoid stepping on the victim as the team continues forward. As the columns pass the victim, the officers close ranks so that the columns are again shoulder to shoulder. Once the last officer in the column reaches the victim, he/she calls stop and the columns stop, as the victim is lifted. The columns then retreat, walking backwards while the victim is carried back to safety. The first officer in each column holds a shield. The shield officer uses both hands to keep the shield facing the suspect/threat. The second officer in each column is the designated cover officer, and should be armed with a shouldered weapon if possible. The cover officers responsibility is to cover down on the threat area as the team moves, engaging the suspect(s) as appropriate. If the team is fired upon from a structure, but the shooter can not be seen, the cover officer is to provide cover fire into the roof eves of the structure in an attempt to cause the suspect to withdraw into the building while the rescue is effected. The third officer in each column is designated as a trailer. The trailer acts as a cover officer upon approaching the victim. Upon walking backwards, after recovering the victim, the trailer serves to steer the cover officer since the cover officer cannot divert attention from the threat. The fourth officer in each column is designated as a rescuer. Once the team reaches the victim, the rescuers from each column join together to lift and carry the victim. The rescuers will face each other, with the victim between them. Each rescuer will wrap an arm under the victims armpit, around the rear of the victims shoulder and grab the victims shirt near the base of the neck. The rescuer will place the other arm under the victims leg, gripping the inner thigh. The rescuers will then lead the retreating team, carrying the victim back to a pre- designated area for medical evacuation
15. 15. SLOW AND DELIBERATE / COVERT CLEARING Summary: Slow and deliberate searches or covert clearing, is the slow coordinated, quiet team approach utilized to safely search for a suspect. It is the safest method of clearing a building. Covert movement is used when team members do not want their presence or exact location known. Covert movement can be used for entry into a building, room clearing, or moving into position in preparation for a hostage rescue. Covert clearing is a detailed and systematic search. Tactics: Preparation An entry into a barricade situation should only be made after all other alternatives have been evaluated. If a floor plan is available, the entry team should identify and discuss special problems or obstacles. A physical rehearsal of these obstacles may be appropriate. The actual entry into the building exposes the team to the greatest danger in covert clearing. The tactics used to physically get the team into the building need to be planned. The point of entry should be prepped in advance of the actual entry. Teamwork: Teamwork is critical for effective covert movements. Operators must key off of those in front of them and anticipate their needs. The team is numbered by their entry order. The scout/point is the #1 operator, back up is #2, squad leader is #3,etc. The first three operators form the primary clearing cell. The scout picks up the most immediate threat to the clearing cell. The most immediate threat is the area that would give a suspect the greatest opportunity to see and attack a team member. The back up keys off of the scout, picking up the next immediate threat. The team leader provides security and utility for the scout and back up. The team leader must move with the scout and back-up to provide cover for their movements. The threat areas will determine the searching pattern taken by the primary clearing cell. The scout will determine the direction of the clearing cell. As the primary clearing cell moves throughout the building, the remaining entry team members fill in behind them. Long cover must always be maintained. Depending on the number of threats, long cover may be covered by the squad leader. Proper covert movement takes time and is fatiguing, particularly for the primary clearing cell. When team members become fatigued, judgement may be inhibited and the tempo may be increased. If fatigue is an issue, rest or substitution should be considered.
16. 16. The entry team must maintain its thoroughness while searching. Operators should avoid passing any potential hiding places before searching them. Closed doors may be passed to clear an opened door or an obstacle near the closed door, as long as it remains covered. It may be advantageous to pause periodically and listen for any suspect movements. The suspect may know the entry team is inside the building and pausing may assist in creating confusion as to the teams exact location, particularly if the team has made any noise. Team members must avoid the tendency to bunch up. This tendency is most likely to occur in long hallways and points of entry. Team members must be wary of other operators crossing their line of fire. Team members should never move out of a room and into another team members line of fire without communicating this intent. The communication should be visual, with an extended hand or verbal via radio communications. All movements should be done with the operators finger off of his/her weapons trigger and out of the trigger guard. Team members should not put their fingers on the triggers until they are ready to fire their weapons. If shots are fired, it is generally best for team members to lock down at their positions. If an operator is hit, team members should execute the downed officer drill. Noise/Light Discipline Talking and hand signals should be kept to a bare minimum. If hand signals are used, they must be done with the weak hand. All radios must have ear pieces in place. Unnecessary equipment should not be taken into the building. Noisy equipment should be taped down. Beepers and watch alarms should be turned off. Exposed Velcro should be covered. Team members should not lean against walls as it tends to be noisy and gives away the teams location. When walking on uncarpeted flooring, it may be beneficial for the operator to roll his/her foot forward on the sides of his/her boots. Lighting a room prior to entry is more advantageous to the entry team as threat areas are more easily recognized. Using the light switch, though, may give away the teams position. It is easier to move from a darkened room to a lighted room than from light to darkness. Light must be used judiciously, though, as it can quickly become over utilized. The operator must continuously determine the necessity of its use. Team members must avoid silhouetting operators in front of them. If two operators are trained on the same threat, the one in front should be the only one using his/her flashlight. An exception is having the back-up light up a room while the scout clears the room, working underneath the light. While covering a darkened window or doorway, it may be best to use light to
17. 17. discourage a suspect from moving to a position of advantage. Use of Angles/Slicing the Pie It is always advantageous to have as much of a room cleared as possible before making entry into it. Based on the terrain, it may be advantageous to slice the pie. A team member slices the pie by slowly moving from one side of an opened doorway to the other side of the doorway. As the operator moves, he pivots on his/her weapon, taking advantage of the angles to clear the majority of the room. The team member must limit his/her exposure by ensuring that none of his/her body parts get ahead of his/her eyes and his/her weapon. It is often necessary to modify the handling of the weapon to minimize exposure. The operator should keep his/her body flat across the angle he is crossing. Rather than hugging the wall, the operator can make better use of the angles by stepping away from the doorway to the other side of the hallway. If the room has few obstacles, it is possible to clear the majority of the room without physically going into it. If the room has many obstacles that can not be visually cleared from outside the room, the team member must be cognizant that he may become a standing, silhouetted target in the doorway. Mirrors: The entry team should always have nearby access to a large, light mounted mirror. The large mirror is useful when clearing stairways, attics, closets, corners, underneath beds, and other areas where a team member may be exposed without cover. The scout and back up should each also carry a handheld mirror for clearing corners. Whenever a team member uses a mirror, a cover officer must be right over the mirror operator for his/her security. The team must be prepared to act if the mirror operator sees a suspect or a suspect sees the mirror. Generally, whenever a suspect is identified, it is better to call out the suspect from a position of cover. Although an area may be cleared with a mirror, it should still be cleared physically after making entry into the room. Shields: The entry team should also have nearby access to both a large and a small shield. Shields are useful while clearing long hallways, holding a position without cover for an extended time, confronting a suspect, rescuing a downed citizen or officer, and blocking a window or other identified threat to support the entry into the building or the movement once inside the building. The team member carrying the shield will have his/her vision limited to directly in front of him. Peripheral vision will be eliminated. A large shield will require the operator to use both hands while carrying it. A small shield should be carried by the operators weak hand. This will allow the
18. 18. operator to carry his/her handgun if they choose. Shooting one handed behind a shield requires a special technique that should be practiced before this technique is used on an actual operation. The back up officer should be as close as possible to the shield man or scout. There should be physical contact to keep the shield man from standing or moving in front of the back up officers weapon. **THIS SECTION WAS TAKEN DIRECTLY FROM ANOTHER DEPARTMENTS TRAINING, MAKE SUGGESTIONS ON ITS ACTUAL RELEVANCE TO OUR TACTICS.** Room Entries: The three basic types of room entries are: the high/low criss cross, the buttonhook, and the modified entry. The type of entry used will depend on the terrain. The type of room, whether the door is open or closed, and the presence of additional threats down the hall will determine it. Proficiency with these techniques requires much practice. Team members must move as cells rather than as two individual operators. The high/low criss-cross is the preferred method of entry. This entry is performed with two team members on opposite sides of the doorway (staged). It is usually done after one of them has sliced the pie. The scout and back up will cross each others path while making entry into the room, maintaining their areas of responsibility. The scout decides when entry will be made by his/her movement toward the doorway. The scout is usually low and the back-up moves above him. The back up keys off of the scouts movement. This technique only allows one operator through the doorway at a time. If the scout is low, and coordinates his/her movements with his/her back-up, the back-up will be able to work over the scouts shoulder and see nearly as much as the scout as they are making entry. Using this technique, team members can acquire their targets from the doorway before making entry into the room. This technique also allows the operators to maintain a stable shooting platform. The buttonhook technique is also performed with team members on opposite sides of the doorway. Rather than crossing in the doorway, both operators will hook into the room. Operators will not see their areas of responsibility until they enter the room. The scout decides when entry will be made by his/her movement toward the doorway. Again, the scout is usually low and the back-up moves above him. The back up keys off of the scouts movement. In a small doorway, the back-up move through the doorway after the scout, but a large doorway allows them to enter the room simultaneously. The modified entry is performed when two team members are on the same side of the doorway (stacked). Because of the terrain, one of them is not able to move to the opposite side of the doorway. Using this technique, one operator will hook into the room and the other operator will cross into the room. To minimize confusion and/or discussion, the scout and back up must know what to expect from each other when they are stacked on a doorway. Their expectations, while flexible, will be based on pre-planned
19. 19. methods. If the scout hooks into the room to pick up the hard angle, the back up will cross into the room. If the scout crosses into the room, the back up will hook into the room to pick-up the hard angle. When making this entry, it may be beneficial for the back up to move from a position behind the scout to a position outside the scout, away from the wall. This positioning will allow the back up to visually clear more of the room before making entry. When clearing a residence, team members must remember that most doors swing into the room. If a door swings out from a room, it is probably a closet. To minimize exposure, the operators head should be the first part of his/her body to enter the room. The operators weapon should enter the room simultaneous with his/her head. There is a tendency for an operator to lead into a room with his/her weapon. This telescoping will give a suspect more time to initiate an assault. To assist in preventing this, the team members weapon should be held in close to the body. This technique is especially useful with a handgun. It will also assist in weapon retention if the suspect attempts to disarm the team member. Most rooms can be effectively cleared with two operators. If the team leader sees it is a big room, or if he is called up, the #4 operator needs to play off of him and also move up and assume the responsibility vacated by the #3 man. If a team member is called up, he will immediately pick-up the uncovered threat unless instructed otherwise. At times, a limited entry makes the most tactical sense. A limited entry is accomplished with an operator merely exposing his/her head and weapon. It is similar to a quick peek with the exception that, with the weapon also entering into the room, the area can be dominated. The limited entry may be used to clear corners after slicing the pie. It is useful on small doorways. The limited entry may be used with any of the three entry techniques. At times, it may be beneficial for an operator to move his/her weapon to his/her off hand. A buttonhook on the right side of the doorway is more efficient if the operator is able to do it left-handed. Again, this technique must be practiced before attempted on an operation.
20. 20. VEHICLE RESCUE Summary: This technique is an option for use to rescue a downed officer or citizen in an open area accessible by vehicle. It is designed to use a police cruiser or sedan but may be changed to use other vehicles (eg: van, truck etc). The vehicle is used for cover while approaching a downed person, effecting the rescue, and withdrawing from the area of danger. Tactics: Cruiser Rescue When using a Sheriffs Office cruiser, four team members will effect the rescue. The right front and right rear team members will be the cover officers and utilize long guns, which will be placed out of the passenger side windows in a firing position. The driver and left rear team members will be the rescuing officers. The driver will maneuver the vehicle in a manner that puts the cruiser between the downed person and the threat, with the passenger side of the vehicle towards the threat. The driver will stop in a position where the cruiser provides cover for the rescue officers and the victim. The driver and left rear team member open their respective doors as the vehicle approaches and exit upon the vehicle coming to a stop, movement should be in a crouched position always remaining behind the cover of the vehicle. The left rear team member grabs the victim by the shoulders from behind the victim's head and the driver will grab the victim's feet/legs. The left rear team member backs into the rear seat of the cruiser pulling the victim on top of him/her in the process. Once the victim and team member is in the rear seat, the driver closes the rear door, returns to the driver's seat and drives from area. Although response to the scene should be as quick as possible, the driver must slow to a stop in a controlled manner so as to not overshoot the victim, not strike the victim with the open doors and to allow the cover and rescue officers to maintain their balance as the vehicle stops. Cover team members should stay as low as possible in the passenger seats while maintaining a cover over the area of threat. The passenger doors may be fortified with body armor draped over the open windows if time permits.
21. 21. PARAMETERS Summary: The purpose of establishing parameters is to define specific geographic boundaries within a designated perimeter wherein a suspect/s is allowed access prior to initiating available use of force options. If a suspect physically exceeds the established parameters without permission of SERT personnel, team members will utilize the amount of force necessary to detain or neutralize the suspect as determined by the totality of the circumstances. SERT supervisors upon establishing the inner parameter based on intelligence information received may establish parameters. In the absence of specific parameter orders, the team will rely on the standard use of force policy and contain the suspects movement to the inner perimeter. Considerations: Parameters should be established as boundaries in distances (in feet or yards) related to given landmarks or designated as specific areas within a designated perimeter wherein a suspect is allowed access during a callout prior to initiating use of force options to detain or neutralize the suspect. Parameters are based on intelligence information available prior to and during deployment. Parameters are based on the evaluation of real or perceived threats by the suspect/s. Parameters are based on weapons accessible or known to be accessible to the suspect/s. Parameters are influenced by the suspect/s actions, which may lead a team member to believe the suspect/s may pose a threat to team members or other persons within the designated perimeter, or beyond. Parameters are established based on the environmental considerations and the safety of other citizens, officers and/or team members likely to be harmed if the suspect/s is permitted to exit or flees the designated perimeter. Established parameters are not necessarily the combined result of all intelligence information previously received or available, but can be based upon one or more of these considerations as well as considerations not specified in this guideline. Parameters are not absolute and can be subject to change once team members have been deployed, and as circumstances dictate and develop during the course of a callout. Parameters can be established for the team but do not eliminate the ability of an individual team member to react reasonably with force to appropriately address the actions of a suspect/s who immediately presents or may present a threat toward others within the designated perimeter or beyond.
22. 22. DIVERSIONARY DEVICES/FLASH BANGS Summary: This guideline will serve to provide guidance in the use of light/sound diversionary devices, including the deployment of the device as well as rendering safe procedures. Tactics: Light/Sound diversionary devices can cause injury and therefore will be deployed with utmost caution. Generally a light/sound diversionary device may be used whenever a diversion is necessary to enable an entry to or arrest to be made.(barricaded subjects, hostage situations, high risk warrant service) The same justification required to deploy SERT should be satisfied to deploy a diversionary device. The purpose of the diversionary device is to reduce risk to the involved officers. Only departmentally approved light/sound diversionary devices shall be used. *Prior to the operator being issued a light/sound diversionary devices, he /she must complete the approved Diversionary Device Training.* Certain conditions may exist which may limit or prohibit the use of light/sound diversionary device. children elderly people combustible material in the area All SERT personnel assigned to deploy a light/sound diversionary device will wear body armor, Nomex gloves, and goggles at a minimum. The use of a balaclava is preferred. **Whenever possible or feasible a bang pole should be used to deploy the device, thereby minimizing the ability of injury to occur.** If no pole is able to be used then; operators shall only deploy diversion devices when they can positively confirm the deployment area is clear/safe (no one within 5 feet of the aiming point). A pre-planned abort area will be designated in case a device cannot be deployed and operators will train to deploy the device in this area (see training plan). Generally, light/sound diversionary devices are either pre-planned for use during a dynamic entry or are used in conjunction with an exigent circumstance necessary to safeguard life. Should a device not ignite, the proper render safe procedures will be followed. Allow the device to set for 30 minutes untouched. Examine the device from a safe distance for a hang fire fuse. Approach the device with a 5-gallon container of water.
23. 23. (Remove port seals, if any) Insert the device into the water. Remove the container to a secure area and let sit for 24 hours. * Diversionary device training to be developed and implemented in 2005. ** Bang pole is a mechanical extension device used to deploy a diversionary device.
24. 24. BUS ASSAULTS Summary: These guidelines are intended as options to be used to dynamically enter a bus to effect an arrest of a suspect/s and/or rescue victim/s. A dynamic tactical entry should be initiated after negotiations and other chemical agents have used or attempted to be used without success. A tactical entry should also be made without warning or prior contacts if possible to effectively stage a hostage rescue. Tactics: The bus should be stopped and ideally disabled prior to an assault. A long rifle team should be deployed as soon as possible to the front area of the bus to address potential threats by the suspect/s, begin surveillance and prepare for a sniper-initiated assault if necessary. The two side-view mirrors on the bus should be disabled prior to any approach to the bus. A four-officer team should be assigned as the diversionary team. This team will be divided into two cells each consisting of a cover officer with his/her assigned weapon and a diversion officer each in possession of a light/sound diversionary device attached to a bang pole. The four-officer diversionary team will make a stealth approach to the bus ideally from the rear and stage at the back of the bus to await the entry team and further deployment instructions. If unable to control or enter through the bus doors and depending upon window type and condition, it may be advisable to assign a minimum of two ladder teams. The ladder team would consist of three officers, one to stage and secure the ladder, the second to climb the ladder and address any visible threats, and the third to provide cover. The ladder teams should approach the bus covertly with the entry team. Upon command, the ladder teams would proceed along the passenger side of the bus. As the diversions are initiated, the ladder teams would stage and climb the ladder. The ladder teams will provide temporary coverage of the passenger area of the bus. The ladder teams should collapse to ground level as soon as the entry team enters the bus. It is the ladder teams cover officers responsibility to assure that the ladder teams collapse at the appropriate time. A four-officer team should be minimally assigned as the entry team. They may bring a shield, less lethal capabilities and a haligan tool. The entry team will make a stealth approach to the bus ideally from the rear, stage momentarily at the back of the bus and then continue to the bus door. The route of this approach to the door will be dependent on several factors; type of bus, cover availability, suspect/s visibility to the outside through windows and doors, locations of the bus windows and doors, location of hostage/s, and other actions by the suspect/s. The entry team should stage as close to the door as possible without being
25. 25. detected from within. The entry will ideally be initiated either by a sniper- initiated assault, the deployment of the diversionary devices or the most opportune time as determined by the entry team leader to avoid jeopardizing the safety of the entry team or others. When the entry team is ready to make entry, the diversionary team will be advised either by radio or hand signal to deploy its diversionary devices. Diversionary devices will be deployed according to the situation as directed by the incident commander. The cover man will provide protection from hostile suspect/s for each diversion officer who will deploy simultaneous light/sound diversionary devices. Once the diversionary devices have been deployed, the diversionary teams will return immediately to the back of the bus where they will take low cover. Upon deployment of the diversionary devices, the entry team will make entry through the door into the bus and deploy in the following manner: The first team member into the bus will address any immediate threats with particular attention directed to the drivers area and proceed into the drivers seat area. This first team member will then cover the high ground (to address persons seated or standing) the length of the bus from the drivers side if able to do so. If the first team member is not able to cover the length of the bus from the drivers seat area due to protective-type barriers often located directly behind the drivers seat, he will address any threat in the drivers seat area, then proceed into the first or most readily available passenger seat behind the drivers seat which will allow him safe access to cover the length of the bus. The second team member into the bus will also address any immediate threats and proceed into the first or most readily available passenger seat on the door side of the bus which will him safe access to cover the high ground the length of the bus. The third and fourth team members will enter the bus and begin walking down the aisle as they cover each other and clear the bus. The fifth and sixth team members will remain staged outside the door and will respond accordingly as directed by the entry team leader. When an entry is made with a sniper-initiated assault, the entry team tactics remain the same. If time permits, the diversionary team should also be ready to deploy its diversionary devices to coincide with the long rifle deployment to assist the entry team efforts. If chemical munitions have been deployed into the bus, all team members (diversionary team and entry team) should have their gas masks on prior to making their approaches to the bus.
26. 26. SHIELD RESCUE Summary: This technique is an option for an outdoor rescue of a downed officer or citizen who is in the line of fire of the suspect and the victims location is such that a rescue by vehicle is not possible. Although there is still considerable risk to all involved in the rescue, it is designed to minimize exposure and coordinate the efforts of the rescuers. Tactics: This technique is designed for use outdoors, ideally with eight (8) Officers. The officers form in two columns of four (4). The columns align shoulder to shoulder as they approach the victim. Upon reaching the victim, the first officer in the column calls split and the columns will separate just enough to avoid stepping on the victim as the team continues forward. As the columns pass the victim, the officers close ranks so that the columns are again shoulder to shoulder. Once the last officer in the column reaches the victim, he/she calls stop and the columns stop, as the victim is lifted. The columns then retreat, walking backwards while the victim is carried back to safety. The first officer in each column holds a shield. The shield officer uses both hands to keep the shield facing the suspect/threat. The second officer in each column is the designated cover officer, and will be armed with a shouldered weapon. The cover officers responsibility is to cover down on the threat area as the team moves, engaging the suspect(s) as appropriate. If the team is fired upon from a structure, but the shooter can not be seen, the cover officer is to provide cover fire into the roof eves of the structure in an attempt to cause the suspect to withdraw into the building while the rescue is effected. The third officer in each column is designated as a trailer. The trailer acts as a cover officer upon approaching the victim. Upon walking backwards, after recovering the victim, the trailer serves to steer the cover officer since the cover officer cannot divert attention from the threat. The fourth officer in each column is designated as a rescuer. Once the team reaches the victim, the rescuers from each column join together to lift and carry the victim. The rescuers will face each other, with the victim between them. Each rescuer can wrap an arm under the victims armpit, around the rear of the victims shoulder and grab the victims shirt near the base of the neck. The rescuer can place the other arm under the victims leg, gripping the inner thigh. The rescuers will then lead the retreating team, carrying the victim back to a pre- designated area for medical evacuation
27. 27. TACTICAL VEHICLE ASSAULTS I. Goal 1. Approach and Assault vehicle in manner that provides maximum safety to team members. 2. Dynamic execution to minimize suspects ability to react to assault. II. Purpose 1. To secure suspects within a vehicle until scene is safe for extractions. III. Line up for approach 1. A six man element will be used to assault the vehicle. 2. #1 and #3 in the stack will each carry a shield. 3. #2 and #4 will provide cover for #1 and #3. 4. #5 will deploy distraction device upon approach. 5. #6 will make approach next to #1 and #2 and provide extra cover upon approach. IV. Approach 1. The optimal approach is from the real of the vehicle and will be used unless circumstances otherwise dictate. 2. Will be made in method to avoid detection until assault is made. 3. Distraction will be deployed on opposite side of approach. V. Assault 1. #1 will deploy shield to front door window and will break window when deemed necessary. 2. #2 will cover down on front door window and make announcement Sheriff Office/Police. 3. #3 will deploy shield to rear door window and will break window when deemed necessary. 4. #4 will cover down on rear door window. 5. #5 will cover down on occupants of vehicle through the back window of vehicle. #5 will be positioned off the rear corner panel and not directly behind the vehicle. 6. #6 will cover down on occupants of vehicle through the windshield of vehicle. #6 will be positioned off the front corner panel and not directly in front of vehicle. VI. Securing vehicle 1. The vehicle will be considered secure when all occupants have their hands
28. 28. where they are visible and are obeying commands. 2. The vehicle has been turned off and the keys are removed from the vehicle. 3. Commands to secure the vehicle will be give by #2. VII. Extracting 1. The driver will be extracted first. 2. #2 will give commands to the driver and when he feels it is safe, he will holster weapon and extract driver taking him away from the vehicle. A perimeter unit will secure the driver and #2 will return to the vehicle. 3. #2 will give commands to any front passenger to be extracted out of the drivers side door. This individual will be removed away from the vehicle and secured by a perimeter units 4. When all front passengers are removed, the commands will be transferred to #4. 5. #4 will give commands to any rear passengers and extract them from the drivers side rear door. Before going hands on, #4 will holster weapon. 6. Perimeter units will secure all persons extracted by #4. 7. Weapons located during approach will be announced to other members and dealt with in the safest way deemed by operator executing the extraction. VIII. Securing trunk 1. #2 will locate the keys to the vehicle and remain behind #1 and #3 who will have the shields butted together. 2. #6 will remain on the left of the shield team and provide cover. #6 will try to use as much shield cover as possible. 3. As the team rotates around to the trunk, #5 will be collected in the movement and provide cover on the right side of the shield team. 4. Once behind vehicle, #3 (right side shield) will take keys from #2 and unlock trunk. 5. #5 and #6 will clear trunk.