Tulsa Police Special Operations Team Spotlight

For more than half a century, the Tulsa Police Special Operations Team (SOT), commonly called SWAT, has proven to be an integral part of the department.

At any moment, these Officers are always ready to protect Tulsa, balancing their regular patrol and specialty unit duties with high-stakes missions.

Some highlights:

• Since its start as the Tactical (TAC) Squad in 1971, the SOT has evolved into a nationally recognized unit, handling critical incidents like hostage rescues, armed barricaded suspects, high-risk warrant services, and dignitary protection.

• SOT members train bi-monthly, focusing on skills like rappelling, helicopter-based rescues, and crisis negotiation. Some members have helped train United Nations forces in Kosovo and competed in the International Warrior Competition in Jordan

• In 2014, the SOT set a national standard by training Officers as tactical medics and including a volunteer trauma surgeon, Dr. Steven Katsis, to provide life-saving care in high-risk situations.

• You'll often see members of SOT, along with Patrol Officers, at community events sharing their stories, answering questions about their jobs, and showing their equipment to the public.

Captain Mike Eckert, a nearly 30-year SOT veteran and team commander for 11 years, shares insights about his remarkable career and leads us through the team’s intense training, innovative medical capabilities, and dedication to keeping Tulsa safe.