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Special Operations Division
The Special Operations Division, led by Commander William Grisafe, oversees many of the Pasadena Police Department’s most specialized and highly skilled units. These teams perform critical functions that enhance the department’s ability to serve the community with safety, precision, and professionalism. The division includes the Air Operations Section, which provides aerial support for patrol, searches, and large-scale incidents; the Traffic Section, which focuses on enforcement, collision investigations, and roadway safety; Community Relations, which fosters meaningful partnerships between the department and the public; and the Detention Center, which ensures safe, secure, and professional custody operations.
A key component of the Division is the Wellness Unit, dedicated to supporting the physical and mental well-being of department personnel. This unit plays an essential role in ensuring that employees remain healthy, resilient, and able to perform at the highest level.
Additionally, the Special Operations Division oversees several collateral and tactical units that provide critical operational support. These include Peer Support, the Special Weapons and Tactics Team (SWAT), the Crisis Negotiations Team (CNT), the Firearms Training Team (FTT), the Defensive Tactics Team (DTT), and the recently established Mounted Enforcement Unit (MEU). Each unit contributes specialized expertise that enhances department readiness and strengthens public safety.
Under Commander Grisafe’s leadership, the Special Operations Division continues to advance excellence through preparedness, innovation, and comprehensive support to both the community and the department.