Conceived in 1980, the Tuscaloosa County Sheriff's Office Tactical Unit has evolved from a donation sponsored unit to a distinguished part of the Sheriff's Office Technical Services Division. Headed by Tactical Team Commander, Lt. John Barker, the unit is comprised of 20 members, all of which have received advanced tactical training involving the most advanced techniques and weaponry. Members of the Tactical Unit have completed training in aspects of executive protection, less than lethal training, chemical agent deployment and various other topics in the tactical field.

The unit's major focal points are execution of high risk warrants, armed and/or barricaded subjects, hostage situations, and executive protection. In-service training is done on a regular basis to insure the team's readiness is maintained at peak efficiency. The Tactical Team also stands ready to assist surrounding agencies upon request.