Careers: Police/Aviation Units

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Expert: - 6/25/2007


Question
I'm currently an aircraft dispatcher for an airline (been with the company for almost 7 years) and I've had my pilot and ATC license since high school and now I'm in part time courses for criminal justice.  I chose to do my opinion paper on aviation in law enforcement and how it's a huge help to the efforts of the criminal justice system (including local/state law enforcement, federal agencies, and the Coast Guard) so what I was hoping you had information on is the number of air units in existence today in state/local agencies, when the first unit was started, and what stats are available (or a link) for the assistance they provide to the efforts of law enforcement.  Fixed wing and helo included.  Anything else you may have would be greatly appreciated!  Thanks!

Answer
Jay:

 Honestly, I don't think that information exists in one compiled format.  Many states and agencies, sometimes down to the county level, have their own air assets these days.  Typically it's rotary wing, but you can find fixed wing as well.

 The list you want would no doubt be a huge undertaking, neccessitating contact with each agency.   The only thing I could think of would be maybe an FAA database of some sort (if there is such a thing) that would list type of aircraft by location/owner, that might give you a starting point.

Sorry couldn't be of more help.

Jason

Careers: Police

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Jason Grabill

Expertise

General Maryland Law Enforcement, Maryland Law & Traffic Law, the Court System. How to start the process to become a Police Officer, different Police careers, the Interview process, General Police career questions

Experience

18 Years experience as a local and Federal Police officer. In addition to working "the road", I've worked as an Academy Instructor, Law Digest Compiler for Police Department, Community Policing coordinator, Department Gang officer, Bike Patrol Officer, and Advanced Accident Investigator. I've also served on the SWAT/SRT team, and currently work for the Department of Army Police (Federal Civilian) at Fort Detrick, Frederick Md, as a Sergeant. I'm Certified as a Police and Emergency Medical dispatcher through the National Academies of Emergency Dispatch.

Organizations
Police Marksman Association Fraternal Order of Police

Education/Credentials
South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy
Prince Georges County Maryland Municipal Police Academy, Western Maryland Police Academy
Radar, Portable Breath Test, PR-24 Police Baton, ASP, Police Mountain Bike Certified. Maryland Police Training Commission Basic Instructor Certified. CALEA Certified Field Training Officer (FTO), Advanced Criminal Investigator School, Advanced Crash Investigator School, National Academies of Emergency Dispatch Certified Emergency Police Dispatch, Emergency Medical Dispatch, Emergency Telecommunications Operator.

Awards and Honors
Police Officer of the Year, Prince Georges County Municipal Police Chiefs Association (1995).
City of District Heights Police Officer of the Year, 1995.
Distinguished Service Cross for Valor, 1995 (National Association Chiefs of Police).

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