Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) teams serve the critical needs of law enforcement and emergency services throughout South Dakota by providing a specialized and highly trained tactical operations unit.

SWAT teams across the state are trained to deploy against threats of terrorism and other high-risk situations, handling critical incidents while recognizing the sacred value of human life.

SWAT Training

SWAT officers are employed by sheriff’s offices, police departments, the South Dakota Highway Patrol and the Attorney General’s Office, Division of Criminal Investigation. Each member is trained to the standards of the National Tactical Officer Association in several specialized areas: 

• Hostage rescue and negotiation
• Sniper operations
• Breaching
• High risk warrant service
• Use of less-lethal devices
• Tactical medical response