Police helicopter has been invaluable

Diane Lenning

During the City Council election process last fall, we heard over and

over from one candidate about the high costs of the new police

helicopter.

Conceptually, it was a “no-brainer” for me. Having previously

worked in the California Youth Authority, I knew statistics and the

necessity to fight crime with an effective plan. Daily observations,

as a teacher for the group, of unchecked inappropriate behavior

against others is motivational to solve problems, as well as enact

strategies and methods of reducing harm to others.

In the last year, our police helicopter has shown its invaluable

contribution to the city’s effective crime management plan securing a

safer environment for all of us, using crime and cost-effective

management. After a review of the following city statistics,

hopefully readers will be a supporter of the helicopter as well.

During June 2003, the helicopter responded to 802 calls for service,

arriving first on the scene 98% of the time allowing ground units to

continue in other community operations. The presence of the overhead

crime fighter resulted in 12 felony arrests, 65 misdemeanor arrests,

with 12 arrests for DUI. The overhead unit was able to assist ground

units to write 78 citations, and observed another 171 traffic

violations. In one case, ground officers lost a burglary suspect and

the helicopter responded locating the suspect hiding in a rear yard

of a home.

These statistics are overwhelming in demonstrating the need for

the police helicopter. Due to state budget cuts, local cuts have been

deep. The inclusion of the air unit makes it possible for the ground

units to apprehend individuals a higher percentage of the time, more

efficiently, thereby making our city a safer place to live.

In this time of possible terrorists’ acts, it is only more

assuring to know we have capable air units that can respond to crime

quickly, efficiently, gathering support from ground units as

necessary. For those of us who live, play, and work in Huntington

Beach, we are truly fortunate to live in a city with a Police

Department of high caliber that uses cost effective crime management

tools, methods, and strategies.

When I hear the helicopter overhead, I hear a sound of safety and

security, giving me the ability to sleep soundly and go about my

daily business peacefully. Sometimes, I even look up and wave. Thank

You Huntington Beach Police.

* DIANE LENNING is a Huntington Beach resident who ran

unsuccessfully for City Council in 2002.