The Division of Special Operations complements the Patrol Division by maintaining units of specially trained officers to respond to unusual situations. Among these are the Tactical Operations Unit, comprised of select officers trained to execute high risk search warrants and conduct hostage negotiations. The Office of Emergency Operations works with local, state and federal agencies to prepare for and coordinate responses to emergency situations.

Other specialized units include our Canine Officers, who utilize specially trained dogs to locate drugs, explosives and other evidence, our Community Action Team (CAT) officers who address special needs within our neighborhoods, our MetroLink officers, who are assigned to ensure the safety of passengers that are traveling via the region's light rail transportation system; the Highway Safety Unit, the Metro Air Support Unit who fly both fixed wing aircraft and helicopters, and our Spirit of St. Louis Airport Detail.