The Capitol Police Hazardous Devices Unit was initially created in 1974. Capitol Police's Hazardous Devices Unit was the first squad in the North Florida area to become a fully equipped unit, the first to deploy a bomb robot, and the first to be accredited by the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) Bomb Data Center.

Members of the Hazardous Devices Unit must pass FBI mandated physicals, have a minimum of three years law enforcement experience and attend a five-week basic course at Redstone Arsenal, located in Huntsville, Alabama. Due to current terrorism trends and the potential for the use of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD), members must also maintain certification as a Hazardous Materials Technician.

The work performed by the Unit is unique and highly technical, requiring specialized equipment such as portable x-rays, bomb suits, disrupters and robotics. To maintain proficiency, technicians train monthly, as well as attend annual regional training seminars. Team members often conduct training for public safety in the areas of terrorism, WMD and basic recruit training. The members provide technical support to tactical teams, as well as dignitary protection teams and render safe procedures of suspected improvised explosive devices, incendiary devices, chemicals, pyrotechnics and ammunition.

Today the Capitol Police Hazardous Devices Unit is part of the Big Bend Regional Bomb Squad, covering the thirteen counties in the North Florida Regional Domestic Security Task Force.

For additional information please contact either Jesse Lovett at jesselovett@fdle.state.fl.us or Keith Raulerson (850-413-9396) at keithraulerson@fdle.state.fl.us.