Special Operations Bureau

The Special Operations Bureau is responsible for a wide variety of functions including Recruitment, Community Engagement Unit, Specialty Units such as Honor Guard, Bikes and Motors, as well as our Emergency Response Team and our Crisis Negotiations Team.  This bureau is also responsible for our Public Information and Social Media unit, training and health and wellness. 

Emergency Response Team (ERT)

The Emergency Response Team is specially trained to handle high-risk situations that exceed the capabilities of regular patrol officers. These include incidents like armed standoffs, hostage rescues, high-risk warrant service, and active shooter responses. ERT members are highly trained in tactical operations, firearms, and crisis containment to ensure public and officer safety during critical incidents.

Honor Guard

A Police Honor Guard is a ceremonial unit that represents the department at formal events such as funerals, memorials, parades, and special events. The team performs with precision and discipline, symbolizing honor, respect, and pride in the department and the city of Laurel. Contact Detective Adam Cheek for more information by calling 301-498-0092.

Crisis Negotiations Team (CNT)

The Crisis Negotiation Team is specially trained for peacefully resolving high-stress incidents involving barricaded suspects, hostage situations, or individuals in emotional or psychological crisis. They often work closely with ERT during critical incidents to provide a coordinated response. Together they encompass the Crisis Response Team (CRT).

Accident Reconstruction

This unit responds to and investigates all life-threatening or fatal motor vehicle crashes. The officers in this unit are specially trained to reconstruct/recreate accident scenes and provide critical evidence for the prosecution of responsible parties where applicable.

Evidence Technician

This unit works closely in conjunction with CID Detectives to gather evidence from major crime scenes. They provide crime scene photographs, searches, sketches, as well as evidence collection of anything pertinent to a crime scene whether physical or forensic in nature.