The Meridian Police Department works to safeguard the lives and property of residents, businesses and visitors, as well as maintains social law and order. It maintains patrol and criminal investigation divisions The department operates a Special Weapons and Tactics (S.W.A.T.) team that conducts drug raids and deals with barricaded suspects and hostage situations. The Meridian Police Department supports Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.), which is an educational classroom program that helps to prevent drug abuse and violence among children. It is comprised of more than 100 part- and full-time sworn and nonsworn officers. The department assists in cases of domestic violence, auto theft, speeding vehicles, felony and animal nuisance. The Meridian Police Department also conducts child safety seat inspections. It is located in Meridian, Miss.