Strategic Response Team

header_SRT_

Responsibilities


The mission of the Athens-Clarke County Police Department's Strategic Response Team (SRT) is to resolve dangerous, or potentially dangerous, situations using advanced tactics and tools, which help to increase the likelihood for a safe outcome for all persons involved. In striving to achieve our mission, SRT members are provided advanced training and special equipment to respond to incidents that are beyond the scope of the average police officer or investigator.

Historically, in Athens-Clarke County, the most common type of incident requiring the SRT's response has been a barricaded gunman situation. However, team members are also trained to resolve a wide range of other incidents including, but not limited to, hostage situations, high-risk warrant service, and the apprehension of violent wanted persons.

Training

To become a member of the SRT, eligible officers must successfully complete a rigorous selection process. The selection process tests physical fitness abilities, critical thinking abilities, and firearm skills. It concludes with an oral interview board. If accepted to the team, members attend regular monthly training in-house. Team members also often attend advanced training outside the department.