The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has recently awarded a $30,000 no-bid contract to a Virginia-based company, Target Down Group, for specialized sniper and combat training. This contract, finalized on September 2, is noteworthy due to its connection to Dan LaLota, who manages the firm and is the brother of Congressman Nick LaLota, a second-term Republican from New York.
The awarded training involves a five-day precision fires and observation course tailored for the Special Response Team (SRT) under Homeland Security Investigations. The objective of the program is to enhance operational procedures and equip team members with the necessary skills for law enforcement sniper operations in challenging environments, according to records obtained by industry sources.
The SRT functions similarly to a SWAT team, comprising specially trained agents prepared for high-risk situations unsuitable for regular personnel. Agents are equipped with military-style gear and extensive weapons training, focusing on breaching techniques, sniper tactics, and close-quarters combat skills.
According to federal procurement records, the no-bid contract was justified on the basis of Target Down Group’s prior collaborations with DHS as well as the firm’s pre-approval for live-fire training exercises at an Arizona law enforcement facility. This sole-source basis raises questions regarding competitive bidding processes typically required for federal contracts.
As discussions unfold, Congressman Nick LaLota remains unreachable for comments, with attempts to connect via his offices yielding no response. Meanwhile, DHS has also not provided any comment regarding the matter.
In a conversation, Dan LaLota asserted that his work with the DHS is separate from his brother’s congressional role, emphasizing that he and Target Down Group have substantial qualifications in this niche field. He further stated that while he would not disclose specifics about his company’s dealings with law enforcement, the tight operational timeline necessitated a swift selection process.
Dan LaLota’s background as a retired Marine sniper enhances his credibility, with over two decades of military experience, including significant engagements in Iraq and a Bronze Star award for valor. Despite this, procurement records indicate discrepancies regarding the company’s legal status in Virginia, raising further scrutiny about its operations and legitimacy.
Federal regulations do allow for such sole-source contracts under specific conditions, aimed to simplify procurement for agencies with immediate operational needs. A justification memo from DHS identified Target Down Group as the sole vendor capable of providing the required training promptly, supported by the company’s established relationships with local law enforcement.
Concerns around the use of federal tactical units have grown, particularly following reported deployments to major cities with Democratic leadership, like Philadelphia and Chicago, amidst heightened tensions related to immigration enforcement. Critics argue these actions are politically motivated rather than focused on public safety, exacerbating the situation in areas already grappling with significant social metrics.
