NCJ Number
235221
Date Published
June 2001
Length
99 pages
Annotation
This evaluation of the 6-month helicopter pilot project of the Toronto Police Service focused on whether the helicopter improved the efficiency and effectiveness of police operations, as well as whether it had a deterrent effect on crime rates in the city.
Abstract
The evaluation found that during the pilot project, the police helicopter demonstrated the ability to respond more quickly to calls and provided an aerial perspective that assisted operations with deployment decisions. The helicopter was effective in increasing the likelihood of apprehensions when supporting police ground officers, particularly regarding calls related to residence burglaries, crowd scenes, vandalism, and stolen vehicles. It also helped diffuse potentially dangerous situations, and police ground officers indicated they had an increased feeling of safety when the helicopter was present at an event. The helicopter was efficient in conducting search and rescue operations; however, there was no evidence that during the 6-month pilot project the helicopter was able to deter high-speed vehicle pursuits. Eighty-seven percent of Toronto residents support the use of a police helicopter. In addition, even when residents were told that the annual cost of the helicopter service would likely be in the range of $3 million, 68 percent of residents maintained their support for the helicopter. The evaluation recommends that prior to a decision on the establishment of an Air Support Unit for the Toronto Police Service that less expensive options be reviewed. In addition, performance indicators should be developed in combination with annual reporting on such indicators to the Toronto Police Service Board. The evaluation also recommends developing a plan for optimal integration of the Air Support Unit with other police operations. Data and information sources for the evaluation are listed.