Special Operations

The Special Operations Division (SOD) of the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office is a specialized unit comprised of highly trained deputies who handle situations that require expertise and tactics beyond the scope of regular patrol duties. These situations may include high-risk warrant service, hostage situations, barricaded subjects, active shooter incidents, search and rescue operations, and other critical incidents.

Criminal Investigation Bureau (CIB):

The CIB investigates major crimes, including felonies, utilizing a multidisciplinary approach.

• Multidisciplinary Investigative Team (MDIT): At least one CIB member is part of the Mercer County MDIT, collaborating with other agencies in the investigation of crimes against children.
• Child Abuse Investigation: Dedicated to the sensitive and thorough investigation of all crimes against children including sexually motivated crimes, internet based or facilitated crimes, abuse or neglect, and human trafficking.
• Digital Forensics: Equipped to handle digital evidence and cybercrime investigations.
• Specialized Training: Members receive advanced training in forensic photography and investigative techniques.

Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT):

Our SWAT team focuses on high-risk situations, including:

• High-risk warrant service
• Barricade subjects
• Hostage and negotiation situations

Members undergo rigorous annual training, both in-state and out-of-state, in advanced entry tactics, sniper training, and less-than-lethal techniques.

K9 Unit:

Our K9 Unit plays a vital role in:

• School resource activities and educational programs for children
• Building searches
• Tracking of missing/endangered persons
• Tracking of fleeing persons
• Detection of illicit substances
• Officer safety

All K9 teams are annually certified through the West Virginia Police Canine Association (WVPCA). Led by Lt. Rose, a Master K9 Trainer with over 20 years of experience, our K9s include:

• Bogart: Bloodhound for tracking
• Bali: Narcotics and apprehension/tracking
• Skubi: Narcotics and tracking
• Axel: Explosive detection

Property & Evidence:

This unit manages crime evidence, seized firearms in accordance with court orders, and abandoned property.

• Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM. This is the only time Property may be retrieved but to ensure an evidence technician is available, make an appointment by calling the MCSD.
• Claiming Property: See the West Virginia State Code overview for abandoned property procedures.
• Required Documentation: A valid ID and proof of ownership or, in estate claim situations, proof of administrator status is required.

Governor’s Highway Safety Program (GHSP):

Led by Lt. Ballard, the GHSP focuses on traffic safety and enforcement.

• Traffic Enforcement Unit: Dedicated officers with fluid territories for targeted enforcement.
• Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) Program: Trained officers skilled in detecting drug impairment.
• Speed Sensor Device: Utilizes advanced technology to calculate average speed for enhanced enforcement.

Federal & State Task Forces:

The Mercer County Sheriff’s Office is a proud member of various task forces, collaborating with agencies like the FBI, ICAC, US Marshals, ATF, FBI Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, C.U.F.F.E.D. Fugitive Task Force, and SRDVCTF (Southern Regional Drug and Violent Crime Task Force).

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