Funding for new police helicopter announced at Oshawa Airport

A “significant investment” from the provincial government is bringing a new helicopter to Durham Police, with the funding enabling the police service to maintain helicopter air support that has served the region for the past 25 years.

The funding is part of a $134 million Ontario government investment in Joint Air Support Unit around the province announced in July to ensure the “safety and well-being” of residents, said Solicitor General Michael Kerzner.

The money will be used to buy five new police helicopters for use in the GTA to combat car theft and organized crime, including one for DRPS (to replace Air1), on July 29.

“My highest priority is the safety of the people of this province,” Kerzner said, adding that the fact a car is stolen in Ontario every 14 minutes is “unacceptable.”

“Criminal networks have become more sophisticated, but so have we,” noted Kerzner, who was at Enterprise Air at the Oshawa Executive 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 Support enhances public safety and provides police 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, with the hope the very presence of the chopper will help 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,” said Durham Police Chief Peter Moreira, who added car thefts were up 35 per cent last year. “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 Region Chair John Henry was also pleased with the financial support. “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 said. “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 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.

“I am thrilled to see the province investing in public safety in Durham Region,” said Ajax Mayor Shawn Collier, who serves as Chair of the Durham Regional Police Services Board. “The new helicopter will be a great asset to support the excellent work DRPS does to keep our communities safe.”