The Washoe County Consolidated Bomb Squad has been awarded a $29,094 grant from the Nevada Department of Public Safety, Office of Criminal Justice Assistance. The award period for the grant runs from January 1, 2026, through September 30, 2026.
This funding will support critical upgrades to the Consolidated Bomb Squad’s first-out response vehicle and enhance the team’s ability to safely and efficiently respond to hazardous device incidents and emerging threats, including unmanned aerial systems (UAS).
The project includes the upfitting of the Consolidated Bomb Squad’s primary response vehicle with a camper shell, bed slide, storage drawers, and a communications radio. These enhancements will improve the secure storage and organization of mission-essential equipment, increase deployment efficiency, and strengthen communication capabilities during high-risk operations.
In addition, grant funding will support the purchase of a removable camper shell designed to securely transport and store the Consolidated Bomb Squad’s mobile drone detection system. This system plays a critical role in identifying and mitigating potential UAS threats during large public events, critical infrastructure incidents, dignitary protection assignments, and emergency response operations.
The primary goal of this project is to enhance the Consolidated Bomb Squad’s operational readiness and response effectiveness by improving equipment accessibility, transport security, and communication reliability. Objectives include completing vehicle upgrades within the grant period, reducing equipment deployment time, and increasing the availability and use of drone detection capabilities during operations and special events.
The Washoe County Consolidated Bomb Squad serves a regional area of responsibility spanning approximately 10,500 square miles, providing specialized response services to Washoe County, the cities of Reno and Sparks, and surrounding rural communities. The Consolidated Bomb Squad is responsible for responding to explosive threats, conducting preventative sweeps, and supporting regional partners in mitigating hazardous device incidents.
Over recent years, the Consolidated Bomb Squad has experienced increased demand for services, including a rise in calls for suspected explosive devices and the growing presence of drone-related threats. These operational challenges highlight the need for enhanced equipment storage, transport, and deployment capabilities.
The anticipated outcomes of this project include reduced response and setup times, improved scene safety, enhanced equipment security, and increased effectiveness in detecting and responding to both explosive and UAS-related threats. These improvements will directly support public safety, protect critical infrastructure, and strengthen the Consolidated Bomb Squad’s ability to serve the community and regional partners.
The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to advancing public safety through strategic investments in technology, equipment, and regional collaboration.
