AIR SUPPORT UNIT
The Air Support Unit was formed in 2006 after the United States Army donated an OH58-C helicopter to the Division of Police. This helicopter was refurbished and equipped using funds forfeited to the Division as a result of criminal activity, including drug proceeds. The unit is based at Bluegrass Field in Lexington.
Staffing
The Air Support Unit is comprised of five unit members and includes three pilots and two Tactical Flight Officers.
Pilots: All pilots are commercial rated in helicopters and are held to rigorous flight standards.
Tactical Flight Officers: TFO's are trained to operate the helicopters tactical equipment including air to ground communications radios and the 31 million candle power Nitesun.
Mission Readiness
The Air Support Unit stands ready to be deployed for the following missions/assignments:
- Patrol Support - This includes being on station over Lexington during peak times to provide assistance to ground units responding to calls for service. During these times the helicopter is most often first on the scene and begins observation for suspects, vehicles, threats to responding officers and provides any relevant information to officers on the ground.
- Search and Rescue - Tactical Flight Officers have been trained to locate individuals participating in the Lifesavers Program. The helicopter is of great value when used to search large areas quickly.
- Emergency Response Unit Operations - Air Support is provided to ERU when needed for mission planning, observation, command and control, perimeter security and tactical deployment of officers.
- K-9 Operations - Air Support Unit members are trained to assist K-9 officers during tracks, building searches and tactical deployment of the officer and dog.
- Major Event Coordination - The helicopter can be used for event planning, criminal patrol during events, traffic control and can light up areas when needed.
The Air Support Unit stands ready for deployment to assist all units within the Division of Police.
