Training SWAT teams - Implications for improving tactical units

As terrorism and other forms of violence continue to increase in American society, there is a growing need for law enforcement agencies to utilize Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) or Tactical Teams. There is, however, very little research available on SWAT units, and even less information on the training needs of these specialized divisions. This article describes the results of an exploratory study conducted to consider the training needs of SWAT units in North Carolina. A survey was administered to sixty-five law enforcement organizations. Results and implications are discussed. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.