The Special Response Team (SRT) was formed in July of 1997 with the assistance of an NC SBI agent. That agent was Van Shaw, the team leader of the NC SBI SRT. The team was to have specialized officers with advanced levels of training. They would respond to high-risk incidents such as:
The SRT consists of officers with a primary assignment, such as patrol or school resource. There are also EMS paramedics embedded in the SRT. The process for selection is extensive. Selected officers undergo many hours of intensive tactical training. This training includes SWAT I and II at the NC Justice Academy. Response to high-risk calls and dangerous situations is made possible with:
The SRT has a rich history of resolving many high-risk incidents over the years. They have preserved human life in those situations.
The Crisis Negotiation Unit is a separate unit of patrol and investigative deputies. These deputies collaborate with the SRT.
The SRT is under the current leadership of Commander Scott Zeman. His supervisor is the Field Operation Captain. Team leaders include Sonny Isenhour and Joshua Helms. They are on constant 24-hour standby.