Simi SWAT team takes second
Local officers compete in San Jose for title of Best in the West

The Simi Valley Police Department's Special Weapons and Tactics Team recently competed in the Best in the West SWAT competition in San Jose.

The Simi Valley team placed second overall, and three team members were awarded individual honors.

Due to the high scores, the team was invited to the National SWAT Competition in Colorado in May 2008.

The team consists of Senior Officer Rich Lamb, Senior Officer Rick Morton and officers Roy Walker, Dave Hodgson, Tom Chapple, Matt Buchanan and Greg Buchanan.

Chapple, Walker and Buchanan won the individual awards.

A total of 37 teams competed in the two-day event that tests individual physical endurance, shooting skill and the ability to work under stress.

The Simi Valley Police Foundation provided the funding for event expenses.