THW Vol. 1, Issue 2
Activations
Suicidal Subject on Santa Rosa Island
In April, a subject went to Santa Rosa Island with the intention of taking his own life. Fortunately, the subject changed his mind. The Air Support Unit was requested to rescue the individual, and a member of SET was requested to assist due to the nature of the call. Additionally, the subject was found to have recently purchased a handgun (which was later found in his backpack when contact was made). The subject was contacted on the island without incident, transported to Santa Barbara Airport, and connected with mental health professionals to receive appropriate care.
Apprehension of Wanted Parolee
In April, a suspect fled from pursuing law enforcement officers in Iowa, evaded capture, and returned to his hometown in Santa Barbara County. The suspect was considered “armed and dangerous.” SIB detectives were able to locate and surveil the suspect. A plan was enacted by SET and the suspect was apprehended without incident. A loaded and suppressed semi-automatic pistol was located following a search of the suspect's vehicle.
The Special Enforcement Team may be activated day or night, 365 days per year. SET prides itself on the successful execution of any task they are assigned. SET’s mission-readiness and capabilities would not be possible without the equipment and training so graciously acquired through the efforts of the Santa Barbara Special Enforcement Team Support Foundation, Inc.
Community
SB SET Support Foundation Fundraiser
In April, Lynda Kest opened her home to host a fundraising event to support the SB SET Support Foundation. Kest previously attended a training day fundraiser and learned of the team’s needs. She was inspired by her experience and graciously offered to host another fundraiser for the team to interact with her friends, neighbors, and members of the community. There was a fantastic turnout of supporters of the Special Enforcement Team. Members of the team were able to showcase equipment and capabilities, as well as answer any questions from those in attendance. Thanks to the incredible donors that attended, the SB SET Support Foundation was able to raise nearly $40,000! This money will go back directly to the team and greatly assist with training and equipment costs. Thank you, Lynda, and to all who participated! The Special Enforcement Team would not be able to obtain much-needed equipment or training without your support.
Other Community Events
Sheriff’s Office Citizen’s Academy Graduation
Sheriff Posse “Boots and Badges” Fundraiser at Red River Ranch
Santa Ynez Airport Day
Southern California Edison Family Day
Equipment
Suppressors
The Special Enforcement Team continues to test and evaluate suppressors from Surefire, HUXWRX (pronounced “hucks works”), and Sig Sauer. The suppressors have performed well with regards to noise reduction, accuracy, and ease of use.
Many law enforcement agencies are beginning to add suppressors to their patrol rifles, and several tactical teams are also starting to utilize suppressors. The reduction of sound to the shooter is the primary benefit of adding a suppressor to a firearm.
The average gunshot, unsuppressed, is between 165-170 decibels (dB). At 140 dB, the National Institute of Health and Safety (NIOHS) states instant hearing damage can be done. Suppressed rifles measure approximately 140dB, and adding quality ear protection can bring the sound level down to approximately 120db
Deputies assigned to SET fire over 4,000 rounds per year between regular training, attending specialized shooting courses, and shooting on their own free time. Hearing damage and loss are real threats to team members over the course of their career.
Members will continue to test and evaluate the suppressors in various applications to determine the best fit for the team.
The Surefire Socom556-Mini2 suppressor, mounted on a 14.5” BCM upper receiver, is pictured above. It retails for approximately $1,400 with the necessary flash hider / suppressor adapter.
Rifles
The team had the opportunity to test a short-barrel AR-10 rifle thanks to Jacob Grey Firearms. The JG10 features upper and lower receivers machined from billet aluminum. The weight-saving design is apparent in that excess material has been removed throughout the rifle. A skeletonized rail system made from carbon fiber also reduces overall weight. The 12.5” barrel, chambered in 308 Winchester, has a 1/10 twist rate and is made from 4150 CMV. The rifle proved more than accurate and was manageable thanks to the JG Cobra muzzle brake.
Communications
The Special Enforcement Team has been testing communications systems from two manufacturers: TCI and Invisio. The team currently uses the Invisio X5 “in-ear” system; however, operators strive to look at systems that will provide the best communications amongst the team, comfort, and noise cancelling capabilities. Invisio provided the team with their T7 over-the-ear system. The system provided clear communications; from normal speaking to whispering. The over-the-ear system can be worn with a headband, neckband, or mounted to a ballistic helmet. The team is already familiar with the push-to-talk features of the Invisio since it is the brand currently utilized. Inviso has quoted the team approximately $41,700 to outfit the team with their state-of-the-art T7 communications system.
TCI offered a variant of their latest over-the-ear communications system, the Liberator HP. The headset features active noise reduction, noise cancellation, and sound localization for better situational awareness. The modular headset can be worn over-the-head, behind the head, and attach to ballistic helmet rails. The system has been worn over various training days and some of the key features proved beneficial. TCI has quoted approximately $35,600 to outfit the team with their Liberator HP. SET will continue to test and evaluate which system can best meet the needs of the team.
Deployment
Detective Robert Alvidres has been activated and deployed to the Middle East with his National Guard unit. SSG Alvidres will be on a yearlong deployment away from his family. Although we’ll miss “Alvi’s” leadership and professionalism, we know he’ll pick up right where he left off when he returns home in June 2024. In the meantime, we will be happy to ship our brother plenty of Peanut M&Ms, jerky, Pringles, and protein bars to:
SSG Alvidres, Robert
40th ID, I&S Co., Div Surg
APO, AE 09306
Retirement
Deputy Charlie Bosma, a member of the Special Enforcement Team since March 2009, recently retired from the Sheriff’s Office. Charlie was part of the “old guard,” and one of the most seasoned and respected operators on the team. During his time assigned to SET, Charlie went to Chemical Agents Instructor School; however, his true passion was “behind the glass.” Charlie was an accomplished marksman on the long rifle, and he had no problem mentoring those that were new to precision, long range shooting. We will miss seeing Charlie around, but we wish him the best in his retirement!
Questions, comments, or THW newsletter ideas can be sent to: matt@sbsetfoundation.org
