The Regional Municipality of Durham and Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) have welcomed the provincial investment in a new helicopter, which they said, will enhance law enforcement capacity and help address sophisticated and evolving crime in Durham Region.
The announcement for a new police helicopter for Durham was made at the end of July (see below). DRPS currently operates Air1 helicopter.
The new helicopter is part of the Ontario government’s investment in a Joint Air Support Unit (JASU). This funding is through the Solicitor General of Ontario.
Helicopter Air Support enhances public safety, and provides DRPS the tools to respond swiftly to criminal activity, major incidents and emergency situations in Durham Region including auto theft, street racing and impaired driving. Equipped with advanced technology, the helicopter will assist search and rescue response support for missing persons. The helicopter’s presence will deter crime, reinforcing the message that illegal activities will be monitored and addressed promptly to ensure public safety, said a join statement.
“We are incredibly grateful for the support that has enabled us to acquire a new helicopter,” said Peter Moreira, Chief of Police.
“This new, state-of-the-art addition will significantly enhance our ability to respond swiftly and effectively to emergencies including violent car jackings and auto thefts. Our officers patrol more than 2,500 square kilometers—one of the largest geographical areas in the GTA. With improved aerial surveillance and rapid response capabilities, we are better equipped to ensure the safety and security of our community, as well as provide assistance to other jurisdictions requiring air support,” he added.
Quick Facts
- On July 29, 2024, the Solicitor General of Ontario announced an investment of $134 million to purchase five new police helicopters for use in the Greater Toronto Area to combat car theft and organized crime, including one for DRPS.
- DRPS patrols approximately 2,500 square kilometers, serving a population of more than 750,000 residents in Durham Region.
- DRPS is the 10th largest municipal police service in Canada.
- In 2023, there was a 35 per cent increase in vehicle thefts in Durham Region.
- The DRPS Air Support Unit is based out of the Oshawa Airport and currently operates a Bell 206 Bill helicopter equipped with mission-specific equipment and is available 24/7 for general patrol or on-call duties.
- The Air Support Unit consists of one full-time pilot, three part-time pilots, two full-time Tactical Flight Officers (TFO) and five part-time TFOs.
- Technology aboard the helicopter includes a thermal imaging system to detect suspects hiding under the cover or night.
- Police helicopters allow DRPS to safely track suspect vehicles across our highways and residential streets.
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