The S.W.A.T  (Special Weapons And Tactics) was created in 1998. The unit was created to deal with incidents requiring a level of police response that exceeds the capabilities of the patrol officers. The unit primarily responds to hostage situations, barricaded violent offenders, high risk warrant service, dignitary protection, riot control and other type of mission delegated by the Chief of Police.

The unit consists of a number of officers who are specially trained and equipped to respond to these type of incidents and attempt to bring them to a safe conclusion. The unit has specialized equipment such as night vision, thermal imagers, ballistic protection equipment and other items. The old adage concerning S.W.A.T is when a citizen needs help he calls the police, when the police need help they call S.W.A.T.. Overall the unit exists to save lives and protect the citizens of Alexandria.

- Street Team

. The Street Team is primarily responsible for targeting criminal activity such as street level narcotics, prostitution, armed robbery and other offenses. The unit also assists the uniform patrol officers with responding to crimes in progress, large disturbances and other matters.  The unit consists of five officers, a sergeant, and a captain. The units members are also members of the departments S.W.A.T.  The Street Team was re-established by Chief Coutee in June 2004.