The Austin County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO) proudly announces that Deputies John Cano and Cole Dyer have successfully graduated from the Houston Police Department Basic SWAT School. This rigorous course provided participants with a comprehensive understanding of SWAT operations, covering essential topics such as SWAT history, selection and retention, equipment use, liability issues, physical fitness, weapons training, intelligence gathering, mission planning, rapid deployment, barricaded persons scenarios, high-risk warrants, and the use of less-than-lethal applications, noise-flash diversionary devices, and chemical agents.
The course was notably demanding, emphasizing physical fitness and operational readiness, and the ACSO commends Deputies Cano and Dyer for their dedication and achievement. Following their graduation, both deputies will be assigned as new members of the Austin County Regional Special Response Team (SRT), where they will continue their training through specialized schools and certifications.
The ACSO also extends congratulations to Weimar Police Department Officer Jason Ellis, who completed the course alongside Deputies Cano and Dyer.
ACSO SRT Assistant Team Leader Adam Mack and Team Leader Rocky Bustamante were present at the graduation to support and celebrate the deputies’ accomplishments. The Sheriff’s Office is proud to enhance its capabilities with these newly trained members and looks forward to their contributions to the community.
What Does It Take to be on a SWAT Team?
Considering a career as a Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) operator requires a significant commitment and preparation. SWAT teams are specialized units within law enforcement agencies tasked with handling high-risk situations, such as hostage crises, barricaded gunmen, and riots. Aspiring candidates must meet stringent requirements and undergo a rigorous selection process to join these elite forces.
To be eligible for a SWAT position, applicants generally need to have at least 2 to 3 years of experience as a police officer. While not always required, having a higher education background in fields such as criminal justice can provide a competitive edge. Applicants must demonstrate exceptional physical fitness, as the selection process includes intense fitness tests that assess both strength and endurance.
Beyond physical fitness, mental resilience is critical. SWAT operators must perform under extreme pressure, making quick decisions and working collaboratively in life-threatening situations. Proficiency with firearms is essential, although applicants will receive additional weapons handling and tactical training once selected.
The selection process for SWAT candidates is multifaceted. It includes physical tests, firearms proficiency assessments, interviews, and psychological evaluations. Those who excel in these areas, particularly those with exemplary service records, have a better chance of advancing through the competitive selection process.
Once selected, new SWAT operators undergo specialized training designed to prepare them for the unique challenges they will face. This training covers a range of tactical and operational skills, such as handling specialized equipment, crisis negotiation, and deploying non-lethal munitions. Depending on their role, SWAT operators may serve as snipers, medics, breachers, drone pilots, or munitions experts, each requiring additional training.
SWAT officers must remain on standby, often working around the clock to respond to crises that demand their tactical expertise. In addition to their specialized duties, many SWAT officers balance regular law enforcement responsibilities. Compensation for SWAT assignments can vary by agency, with additional pay often provided for overtime, uniform and equipment stipends, and specialized duty assignments.
Overall, becoming a SWAT operator requires a combination of experience, training, physical fitness, and mental toughness. It is a demanding but rewarding career path for those dedicated to serving in some of the most challenging situations in law enforcement.
