Special Response Team (SRT)

The North Central Washington Special Response Team was formed in April 2003. The multi-jurisdictional unit was established to effectively and decisively counter increasing occurrences of violent confrontations between police and criminal elements within the confines of Okanogan County and its municipalities.

The unit consists of a number of specially trained and equipped deputies and officers from various agencies. These team members are tasked with safely and effectively addressing high risk crisis incidents in an effort to reestablish public safety while attempting to stop or minimize any injury or death to all individuals involved.

The Special Response Team is responsible for responding to high risk warrant service, barricaded suspects, hostage situations, sniper situations and other unusual occurrences beyond the tactical capability of normal police resources.

Through the Sheriff's Office Partners in Preparedness Program, members of the Special Response Team use their specialized training and experience to provide training to law enforcement agencies, local schools, and the public regarding topics such as active shooter response.

In addition to its local law enforcement partners, the team also receives training and assistance from various state and federal partner agencies.  Additionally, partner members from Lifeline Ambulance act as tactical medical personnel.