Special Weapons and Tactics

On June 23, 1987, the City of Albert Lea Police Department combined resources to form a larger multi agency regional emergency response team.  The unit became operational January 1, 1988.  As of 2001 the emergency response team is known as the South Central Drug Investigative Unit Tactical Team (S.C.D.I.U. Tactical Team).  Albert Lea Police Department’s Special Weapons and Tactics (S.W.A.T.) Team officers compliment the S.C.D.I.U. Tactical Team.

The safety and preservation of all human life is the team’s primary goal.  The Albert Lea Police Department’s S.W.A.T. Team accomplishes this goal by acting as a law enforcement support unit, which is specially trained and equipped to resolve critical high-risk situations.  Containment of suspects and negotiation procedures are the team’s first responsibilities.  The S.W.A.T. Team is comprised of licensed and specially trained police officers, under the continued professional development and command of Lieutenant J.D. Carlson.

Emergency – Dial 911     Non-Emergency (507) 377-5210     Animal Control (507) 377-5210