Winnipeg police helicopter used in 3,445 incidents

The Winnipeg police helicopter helped nab more than 180 people in its second year of operation.

According to police, AIR1 responded to 3,445 incidents in 2012, resulting in 185 arrests by ground patrol units.

The helicopter, which became operational in February 2011, also provided assistance to several other outside agencies including the RCMP, Morden Police Service and Manitoba Finance Special Investigations Unit, according to the Winnipeg Police Service. The police servicebudget provides for1,000 hoursof flying time annually for the helicopter.

Its mandate includes:

• Response to crimes in progress for aerial containment and investigation.
• Infrared searches for suspects and evidence, and co-ordination of ground response.
• Tracking and surveillance of suspect vehicles during police pursuits.
• Illumination of crime scenes, collision scenes, vehicle stops, search areas, disturbances, and foot pursuits.
• Aerial searches for missing or lost people.
• Aerial reconnaissance and photography or videotaping of crime scenes, traffic collisions, high-risk incidents or remote areas.
• Infrared scans to provide evidence of illegal grow operations relating to drug investigations.