Durham Police Chief Peter Moreira and Ontario Solicitor Normal Michael Kerzner at Oshawa Airport
A “significant investment” from the provincial authorities is bringing a brand new helicopter to Durham Police, with the funding enabling the police service to take care of helicopter air help that has served the area for the previous 25 years.
The funding is a part of a $134 million Ontario authorities funding in Joint Air Help Unit across the province introduced in July to make sure the “safety and well-being” of residents, mentioned Solicitor Normal Michael Kerzner.
The cash will probably be used to purchase 5 new police helicopters to be used within the GTA to fight automobile theft and arranged crime, together with one for DRPS (to interchange Air1), on July 29.
“My highest priority is the safety of the people of this province,” Kerzner mentioned, including that the very fact a automobile is stolen in Ontario each 14 minutes is “unacceptable.”
“Criminal networks have become more sophisticated, but so have we,” famous Kerzner, who was at Enterprise Air on the Oshawa Govt Airport Friday to make the announcement. “These helicopters will be a critical tool in helping police stay one step ahead of the criminals who are stealing cars and committing crimes on our streets.”
Helicopter Air Help enhances public security and supplies police the instruments to reply swiftly to felony exercise, main incidents and emergency conditions in Durham Area together with auto theft, road racing and impaired driving. Geared up with superior know-how, the helicopter will help search and rescue response help for lacking individuals, with the hope the very presence of the chopper will assist deter crime.
“We are incredibly grateful for the support that has enabled us to acquire a new helicopter. 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,” mentioned Durham Police Chief Peter Moreira, who added automobile thefts had been up 35 per cent final 12 months. “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.”
Durham Area Chair John Henry was additionally happy with the monetary help. “Every day, members of the Durham Regional Police Service work to ensure the safety and well-being of our residents. This new modern helicopter in the fleet will be critical in addressing the growing and complex challenges of modern crime,” he mentioned. “This new funding will enable DRPS to enhance its Air Support Unit, helping to ensure that Durham Region is a safer place for everyone.”
The DRPS Air Help Unit relies out of the Oshawa Airport and at the moment operates a Bell 206 Invoice helicopter outfitted with mission-specific gear and is offered 24/7 for common patrol or on-call duties.
The Air Help Unit consists of 1 full-time pilot, three part-time pilots, two full-time Tactical Flight Officers (TFO) and 5 part-time TFOs.
Know-how aboard the helicopter features a thermal imaging system to detect suspects hiding beneath the quilt or evening.
“I am thrilled to see the province investing in public safety in Durham Region,” mentioned Ajax Mayor Shawn Collier, who serves as Chair of the Durham Regional Police Providers Board. “The new helicopter will be a great asset to support the excellent work DRPS does to keep our communities safe.”
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