The Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff’s Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team has identified the need for the acquisition of enhanced vision and video optic capabilities, to include night vision goggles (NVG’s) for the tactical operators. As recent terrorist events have unfolded in the United States, the State of California, and internationally, the role and scope of the SWAT team has evolved to include not just law enforcement activities, such as servicing high-risk warrants, barricaded / hostage events, but also responding and reacting to terrorist attacks, explosive devices, and inspection of suspicious packages.
A recent gap analysis conducted by SWAT Command of the team’s capabilities concluded the SWAT team is ill-equipped to effectively respond, react, and neutralize any threat during nighttime hours or operations under low light conditions in interior and exterior environments. These incidents may involve extensive searches for the suspects and civilians in open fields, urban environments, interior buildings and structures. These events can last several hours during the daytime and nighttime. The acquisition of night vision equipment for the SWAT team will greatly enhance the team’s capabilities and response in the region during similar events.
Therefore, the Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff’s SWAT team is requesting UASI FY17 grant funds for the purchase and acquisition of individual night vision goggles, mounts, adaptors, shrouds, beacons and cases for the tactical operators.
The SWAT team does not currently have night vision and will remain ill-equipped to effectively respond and react to threats during nighttime hours or low-light conditions.