MVPD's Critical Incident Operations Group (CIOG) maintains a state of readiness with capabilities to resolve incidents that are so hazardous, complex, or unusual, that they may exceed the capabilities of regular police officers.
CIOG includes three components: - Patrol officers (first responders)
- Crisis Negotiations Team (CNT)
- Special Weapons & Tactics (SWAT)
CIOG responds to critical incidents, such as barricaded suspects, high-risk apprehensions, hostage incidents, active shooters, demonstrations and riots. Though these situations are fortunately rare in Mountain View, our preparedness assures us the ability to respond quickly and appropriately if and when they do occur.
CIOG is also at the forefront of homeland security planning and preparedness. In the event of a terrorist incident, including those involving weapons of mass destruction, MVPD is prepared to respond with the support of allied law enforcement agencies and other government organizations.
Sgt. Ted Rodgers, Crisis Negotiation Team operator.
Crisis Negotiation Team (CNT)
CNT consists of highly-trained professionals during critical incidents in an attempt to preserve life and defuse volatile situations through negotiation. The Crisis Negotiation Team supports both patrol and SWAT when dealing with persons who are not communicating, refusing to communicate, or making demands. CNT operators are trained to resolve incidents through negotiation whenever possible.
CNT is staffed by officers and other personnel who work regular full-time assignments when not responding to critical incidents. The team works and trains with Palo Alto and Los Altos Police Departments' CNT.
Special Weapons & Tactics (SWAT)
MVPD SWAT averages five call-outs per year. Since its inception in 1989, the team has handled a variety of incidents, including hostage rescue, barricaded subjects, and high-risk apprehension and warrants. SWAT has also provided crowd control at labor and political demonstrations, and personal protection to visiting dignitaries, including supporting the United States Secret Service. |  | 
Mission
To provide a tactical response to critical incidents using developed skills, tactics, and specialized equipment and capabilities in order to manage those incidents with strategies that emphasize control, containment, resolution, and the protection of life and property.
Specialty Assignments - Breaching Specialist
- Chemical Agents Specialist
- Crisis Negotiator
- Less-lethal Weapons Specialist
- Tactical Commander
- Tactical Dispatcher
- Team Leader
- Rappel Master
- Snipers/Observers
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