The Clay County Sheriff's Office utilizes a multi-jurisdictional SWAT Team for Clay County. CCSO offers slots for members of the Orange Park Police Department to participate on their SWAT Team. This is a part-time team, meaning it is a collateral duty for each officer and deputy on the team. Members of OPPD have served proudly on the CCSO SWAT Team since this concept began in 2007. To become a SWAT officer, candidates must pass a grueling multi-day selection process, and pass a BASIC SWAT School.
SWAT is a dedicated team of selected officers and deputies prepared for successfully resolving critical incidents exceeding the capabilities of law enforcement first responders. SWAT Team members are trained in the use of advanced tactics and specialized weapons/equipment to allow them to effectively handle difficult and dynamic situations to include hostage rescue, armed barricaded subjects, high-risk search warrants, and violent fugitive apprehensions. Dealing with the unexpected in high-stress situations is just another day in the office for a member of the team. They regularly encounter violent felons and recover weapons while serving the warrants. They also respond to "critical incidents" often involving violent and dangerous subjects.