New Police Unit Announced For Watsonville

WATSONVILLE - The Watsonville Police Department has announced the mobilization of a new Special Response Unit (SRU).

Police say the unit has been established to provide "specialized support in handling critical field operations where negotiations, rescue, and/or special tactical deployment methods are needed."

Here's the information as posted by Watsonville police:

The Watsonville Police Department is proud to announce the mobilization of the Special Response Unit (SRU). It has taken approximately four years to bring this project to fruition. Members of SRU volunteer for this assignment and do not receive pay incentives. The Special Response Unit is comprised of two specialized teams: the Crisis Negotiation Team and the Special Response Team. The unit has been established to provide specialized support in handling critical field operations where negotiations, rescue, and/or special tactical deployment methods are needed.
It is the intent of the Watsonville Police Department to deliver a quick response to situations which reach beyond the capabilities of normally equipped officers. The presence of a highly trained, highly skilled in negotiations and tactical unit has been shown to substantially reduce the risk of injury or loss of life to citizens, peace officers and suspects. A well-managed team response to critical or high-risk incidents usually results in a successful resolution, with the minimal use of force.
Duties of the Special Response Unit also encompass high risk arrests and search warrant service or any situation that could enhance the ability to preserve life, maintain social order, and ensure the protection of property.
Understanding that all incidents brought to the attention of the police differ in nature, it is crucial that each situation be examined from a holistic standpoint. Members of the Special Response Unit receive state certified training and work closely with the Watsonville Police Department’s new CARE program (Crisis Response And Engagement).

-images via Watsonville police