Cleveland County Multi-Jurisdictional Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Team to begin utilizing the Cleveland County Lenco BearCat for high-risk crisis response. In June 2021, Sheriff Amason announced a partnership between the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) and the Moore Police Department (MPD) to form the South Metro SWAT team. Sheriff Amason and MPD Chief Todd Gibson want to provide all Cleveland County citizens with the safety, protection, and service they deserve. “The reason we acquired the BearCat is simple; it is to save lives and allow our deputies to do their job in the safest way possible.” Amason said. Moore Police Chief Todd Gibson said, "I appreciate the partnership we have with the Cleveland County Sheriff's Office and the cooperation to improve law enforcement capabilities in Moore and all of Cleveland County." With approval from the Cleveland County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) for the purchase of a Lenco BearCat G3 armored vehicle, Sheriff Amason is fulfilling his promise to provide state-of-the-art equipment to enhance the safety and security of the citizens of Cleveland County in the event of a critical incident. The BearCat G3 is a fully armored vehicle capable of comfortably seating 10-12 law enforcement personnel or citizens. The BearCat is designed to protect first responders from incoming fire, protecting individuals from rounds up to 50 caliber. This allows law enforcement to approach potentially deadly situations under cover, aiding in evacuations of citizens in harms way. Anytime there is potential for encounters with an armed subject, such as active shooter situations, Sheriff Amason will deploy the Bearcat. Sheriff Amason says that an incident in Norman in spring of 2021 was a big reason for his push to obtain the BearCat. “Officers were dealing with an active shooter targeting residents’ homes and vehicles as well as officers on the scene; hindering all evacuation efforts. Residents and officers were forced to take shelter, using vehicles and homes for protection until armored vehicles from the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and Moore Police Department could arrive. ” Sheriff Amason can now deploy the BearCat throughout Cleveland County and the surrounding counties immediately for incidents involving hostage situations, barricaded subjects, recovery of downed officers or citizens, and high-risk warrant service. “Our armored rescue vehicle has no offensive capabilities. It is a protective platform for citizens and peace officers. It will greatly increase both the capabilities of our SWAT team and the safety of deputies responding to dangerous situations. I believe it is imperative that I provide the necessary tools to save lives.” Sheriff Amason says.