The Hostage Negotiation Team was formed in 1976 when Law Enforcement Officials recognized the advantages of negotiating with barricaded subjects to, not only preserve the subjects life, but to protect the lives of deputies and innocent citizens.  The Negotiations concept began as a communications style in which one or two hand picked deputies would barter with a subject in an effort to resolve a situation peacefully.

Role Players act as "Hostage Takers" in training scenarios designed to perfect the negotiators skills.

During the 1980's  negotiators were formed into groups or teams of several individuals and began to receive a limited amount of specialized training.  Sheriff Kevin Beary was first elected to office in 1992.  Having previously supervised many critical incidents as a SWAT Commander, Sheriff Beary recognized the benefits of a well-trained and experienced Hostage Negotiation Team.  Under his direction, the Orange County Sheriff's Office has provided an environment for the Negotiation Team to excel.  During the summer of 1992 the Hostage Team was reduced to 18 members who are required to attend specialized training and develop specific communications skills.  Training is provided by the FBI, attendance at Hostage Conferences and from recognized specialists in a wide range of fields.  A comprehensive selection process, including an oral interview, role playing exercise, and psychological evaluation ensure only the best suited candidates are selected to be negotiators.

In 1993, the Hostage Team developed specifications for a specialized vehicle (photo below) to be used in high risk situations.  By years end the vehicle was purchased with money seized from drug dealers and entered into service.  The vehicle contains and supports specialized communications equipment and is designed to enhance the negotiations process. Today's Hostage Negotiation Team works in concert with the SWAT team and other specialized units under the command of the High Risk Incident Commander.  These units work together to resolve critical incidents while adhering to our agencies goal of preservation of life and property.  The Hostage Negotiation Team endeavors to seek cooperation from a subject in a critical incident to gain insight into their thought process and help direct them towards a peaceful outcome.  Tactics don't follow failed negotiations; the proper use of tactics encourages negotiations.  Negotiations are often  referred to as the velvet glove on an iron hand.

Tireless patience, excellent listening skills and the ability to communicate at multiple levels help the negotiator achieve the desired goal:  A safe end to the crisis with no loss of life.

Negotiations works in concert with SWAT.  Tactics don't follow failed negotiation; the proper use of tactics encourages negotiations.  Preserving life is job one.	Specially outfitted to respond to high risk situations with specialized communications equipment this vehicle was brought into service using money seized from drug dealer.

The Orange County Sheriff's Office Hostage Negotiations Team has developed advanced training critiques based upon incidents occurring in Orange County.  Team members have provided training throughout the United States and Canada.  Assistance is provided to other agencies through training, team formation, and policy development.