S.E.R.T.

S.E.R.T. (Sheriff's Emergency Response Team) is a specialized unit of the Wicomico County Sheriff's Office and is commonly referred to as SWAT (Special Weapons and Tactics). WCSO SERT operations can include serving high risk arrest warrants, performing hostage rescue and/or armed intervention, preventing terrorist attacks and engaging heavily armed criminals. The WCSO SERT is equipped with specialized firearms, including submachine guns, shotguns, carbines, riot control agents, distraction devices, high powered rifles for marksmen (snipers) and TASERS. They have specialized equipment including heavy body armor, entry tools and armored vehicles.

Training

SERT Offices are selected from volunteers within WCSO. Deputies generally have to serve a minimum tenure within the department before being able to apply for a specialist section such as SERT. This tenure requirement is based on the fact that SERT officers are still law enforcement officers and must have a thorough knowledge of department policies and procedures. SERT applicants undergo rigorous selection and training. They must pass stringent physical agility, written, oral and psychological testing.