The highly trained Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff Special Weapons and Tactics team (S.W.A.T.) is used in situations involving hostage taking, armed barricaded subjects, high risk arrest and search warrants, or other situations that present a high degree of danger to life or property. 

The S.W.A.T. team is comprised of the Tactical Team, Snipers, Hostage Negotiators, and Tactical Dispatchers.

S.W.A.T. team members are specially trained in the use of:

• Variety of weapons and chemical agents
• Hostage rescue
• Capturing barricaded suspects
• Armored vehicle rescues
• Anti-sniper tactics
• Executive protection
• Negotiations

To become a member, deputies must pass a rigorous physical fitness test, be proficient with a handgun, and have thorough knowledge of department policies and procedures. The SWAT team trains constantly and members cross-train in all assignments to enhance the team’s effectiveness.