Explosive Ordnance Disposal
14
EOD Activities
Explosives Recovery
Suspicious Packages
Hoax Device
SWAT/Patrol Assistance
Search Warrants
8
4
1
4
1
The Explosives Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit
has always required a "Modern Approach" to stay
relevant. Much of the skills needed for bomb
disposal require technology, which is constantly
changing and upgrading. This also requires
additional and continual training for the
technicians to maintain and learn the skills
necessary to succeed. As a part of regional
team, they are able to train and learn from all
of the nearby agencies. This year the team was
able to upgrade the x-ray technology to a digital
system. This allows technicians to quickly and
safely diagnose suspicious packages, lowering
the time with an unidentified device, closing the
call quicker and reducing disruptions to citizens.
EOD handles all types of incidents related to
explosives, from ammunition inspections to
recovering found explosives. Additionally, they
have been trained to operate in all types of
conditions from high-angle cliffs to confined
spaces.
EOD also provides services to other specialty
units within the Sheriff’s Office beyond just
explosive devices. Members of this unit are
trained to operate a robot that has been used
numerous times to assist SWAT in remotely
breaching, entering and clearing buildings
utilizing botht he robot and explosive breaching.
This robot is also capable of performing
forward observation through cameras, break
and rake access to clear debris paths, vehicle
disabling, and downed officer retrieval.
EOD can often be found at community events.
These events give the team an opportunity to
engage, interact and educate with the adults
and you in the community. These events include
Red Ribbon Week, Explorers training, the
Citizen’s Academy and the County Fair.
In 2019, there were a total of 22 callouts for EOD.
Some of the dangerous items removed this year
include a military mortar dropped off at a local
consignment store, blasting caps, dynamite and
an improvised explosive device. EOD also
assisted patrol in clearing multiple locations
after receiving bomb threats.