CITY OF FRESNO
Office of Mayor Jerry P. Dyer
_____ _________________________________ ________________________________ LEE BR JERRY P. DYER, Honorable Mayor ANNALISA PEREA, Council President
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ESMER MIKE KARBASSI, Council Vice President MIGUEL ARIAS, Councilmember District 3
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PAUL C TYLER MAXWELL, Councilmember District 4 LUIS CHAVEZ, Councilmember District 5
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GARRY GARRY BREDEFELD, Councilmember District 6 NELSON ESPARZA, Councilmember District 7
WHEREAS, in 1968, the Los Angeles Police Department pioneered the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) concept, establishing specialized teams to address high -risk situations, ensuring the safety of officers and the community; and
WHEREAS, the tragic loss of Fresno Police Sergeant Sal Mosqueda in August 1973 underscored the critical need for a dedicated tactical unit within the Fresno Police Department; and
WHEREAS, the Fresno Police Department took decisive action by participating in the FBI National Academy training program, helping establish the Fresno Police SWAT Team on July 1, 1974; and
WHEREAS, the Fresno Police SWAT Team has since evolved into a highly trained and specialized unit, consisting of two lieutenants, four sergeants, and 25 police officer operators, dedicated to saving lives and providing tactical support in critical incidents; and
WHEREAS, the team diligently trains 20 hours each month to maintain operational readiness, focusing on expanding their skill sets in various disciplines, including de -escalation, mental health, and crisis communication. The collaboration between the SWAT Team and the Crisis Negotiation Team exemplifies a commitment to peaceful resolutions, prioritizing the safety of all involved; and
WHEREAS, the auxiliary support team plays a vital role, ensuring the SWAT Team is equipped and ready to respond to any situation, further enhancing the operational capabilities of the unit; and
WHEREAS, as we commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Fresno Police SWAT Team, we honor their unwavering dedication, professionalism, and discipline in serving and protecting the citizens of Fresno, making our community a safer place.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that we, Mayor Jerry Dyer and Members of the Fresno City Council, do hereby proclaim October 31, 2024, to be:
“Fresno Police Department’s SWAT Team Day”
In the City of Fresno.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, we have hereunto set our hands and
affixed the seal of the City of Fresno, California, this 31st day of October 2024.
Honoring the SWAT Team’s 50 th Anniversary
ice and Excellence