Limestone County Sheriff's Office

SRT

(Special Response Team)

From left to right front row: Lt. Guy Simmons, Inv. Eric King, Dep. Tim McNeill, Dep. Steve Croley, Inv. Josh McLaughlin

The first specially trained law enforcement units were set up by the New York Police Department in 1925. Called the Emergency Service Unit, officers worked on cases involving criminal gangs and worked to combat the rapidly increasing number of murders and robberies. Team members received special weapons training and learned how to handle police emergencies, including how to rescue hostages.

Since that time, the role of special response teams in law enforcement has changed. Due to recent events and changing public sentiment, Special Response Teams across the nation have set aside traditional tactics. Law enforcement officers consequently have employed more aggressive tactics in crisis events and because of this, they have become more militarized in their procedures.

After consideration of the challenges that law enforcement must face today, and in lieu of special circumstances being addressed by  the AL Department of Homeland Security, Sheriff Blakely appointed the SRT. The SRT members are highly trained and experienced in special weapons and tactics. The members participate on a voluntary basis and must maintain a high standard of qualification in weapon proficiency and rigorous physical training. Organized training sessions are held at least once each week.