The ESU is a specially trained unit that is designed to handle situations that occur outside the scope of the normal duties that the Patrol and CI Division’s handle.

The Unit is divided into four major functions:

• Hazardous Device
• Canine
• Crises Negotiation
• Tactical

Situations the unit handles may include actual or suspect bombs and other hazardous devices, missing persons or escaped fugitives, disaster searches and recovery, suicidal and barricaded suspects, and high risk warrant service.

ESU K-9

The K9 unit is staffed by 5 full-time handlers with dogs trained to detect anything from drugs and explosives to tracking and apprehension. The unit is assisted by 10 teams of volunteer handlers that augment the Search and Rescue functions.

ESU - Bomb Squad

The Bomb Squad for the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office was formed in 1981 and achieved FBI accreditation in 2000. It's mission is to preserve life and to provide competent public safety bomb technician services by following established guidelines for acceptable and professional practices, which provides maximum safety from physical jeopardy and legal liability for individuals, government agencies and the public. The duties and responsibilities of the Bomb Squad include the render-safe or removal of suspected improvised explosive devices, incendiary devices, explosives, explosive chemicals or pyrotechnics. The Bomb Squad provides technical support to special operations, prepares and participates in explosive related training programs, and maintains a high degree of readiness to calls for service.