It’s not too often that a SWAT Team has the opportunity to train in a large empty building that is scheduled to be demolished. On August 9, 2006 the Warwick PD SWAT Team acquired the use of the old Kent County Courthouse building courtesy of the RI Judiciary. The WPD Team invited neighboring law enforcement tactical teams to participate in a Counter-Terrorism Exercise. In addition to Warwick, the RI State Police Tactical Team, West Warwick/Coventry Regional SWAT Team, and East Greenwich and Cranston Special Response Teams were also involved. A specialized Team from the ACI was included, along with the Warwick Fire Department’s Special Hazard Unit who brought along their specialized breaching tools.

The scenario called for three heavily armed terrorists to occupy the building, and barricade various interior and exterior doors. The hard structure of the building made it extremely difficult to gain entry, and this required specialized tools. Along with searching the building for the terrorist players, team members had the opportunity to utilize explosives to breach doors. The Warwick Fire Department Special Hazard Unit demonstrated their rescue tools that can be used by tactical teams during hostage rescue operations. The ACI Team also demonstrated their special cutting saw. Diversionary devices (flashbangs) were incorporated during the exercise to add realism. Firearm safety was a primary concern, in view of the large amount of armed tactical personnel involved. Safety observers were busy ensuring that all weapons were made safe. They did an outstanding job.

Overall, the training was very successful and beneficial, and it clearly showed the need to work together in a counter-terrorism operational setting. As a result, participating Teams are now better prepared to meet the challenge of a terrorist strike in Rhode Island.

The Rhode Island Tactical Officers Association (RITOA) would like to commend the RI State Police Tactical Team, Warwick SWAT, West Warwick/Coventry Regional SWAT, East Greenwich and Cranston Special Response Teams, ACI Correctional Response Team, and the Warwick Fire Department Special Hazard Unit, and extend a job well done.

Briefing prior to commencing exercise.	East Greenwich PD SRT preparing for entry.
Warwick FD Special Hazard Unit demonstrating specialized entry tool.	Working together! WFD Special Hazard Unit working with law enforcement tactical teams.