SOAR
Training
The Special Operations and Response Team (SOAR) is comprised of deputy sheriffs who are trained to handle a variety of specialized tasks. Each team member is highly skilled in special weapons and tactics (SWAT). Team members receive continual specialized training to ensure they maintain appropriate proficiency levels.
Duties
Resolving Crisis Situations
Members are called upon to successfully resolve crisis situations involving incidents such as armed, barricaded suspects and hostage situations. This tactical team minimizes the liabilities associated with armed confrontations.
Executing High-Risk Warrants
When not responding to incidents requiring a SWAT call-out, SOAR responds to other county law enforcement needs, including high-risk warrant services. The execution of certain warrants by conventional enforcement techniques might expose deputies to extreme and unnecessary danger. However, the SOAR team's primary purpose in all operations is risk reduction. While the team cannot totally eliminate risks, it has formulated a network of procedures that overcomes dangers with the use of special equipment, weapons, training, and sound tactical operational plans.
Correctional Assistance
Additionally, the SOAR team is trained to assist our correctional staff in:
- Providing security in the transportation of high-risk inmates
- Quelling inmate disturbances
- Searching cells
- Searching inmates
Stakeouts
The SOAR team is also called upon for marijuana stakeouts and eradication. They endure heat, snakes, spiders, and ticks while still looking out for potentially armed growers and booby-trapped gardens.
For More Information
For more information about the SOAR team, please contact the sheriff's office at (530) 458-0200.