Briefly in the news

-- Deepa Bharath

Airborne Law Enforcement Services, a joint helicopter patrol between

the cities of Costa Mesa and Newport Beach, will celebrate the dedication

of a new model helicopter Thursday.

The Eurocopter EC120B model, manufactured in France, offers the latest

technology and provides more space for on-board equipment and improved

visibility. Advanced composite and aerodynamic technology, officials say,

make it the quietest helicopter in its class.

The dedication will take place at the Costa Mesa Community Center at

1845 Park Ave. at 1 p.m. Thursday.

ABLE became functional in 1996 when the two cities consolidated their

resources in an attempt to provide a higher level of service at reduced

costs. The program economizes further by providing contract services to

Santa Ana and the Orange County Sheriff’s Department.

The operation is based at John Wayne Airport.