Quote:
Originally Posted by Rutuu
Pretty interesting they've asked for two new choppersat acost of $11m to replace the 14yr old airframes of the existing ones. The unlimited police budget continues...
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Speaking from experience the HAWCS helicopter video footage will essentially on its own result in guilty pleas to some pretty serious stuff, and has also been instrumental in capturing incidents of police misconduct.
I have also watched a number of videos that allowed a suspect vehicle to be followed in complete safety rather than via high speed chase from ground units.
Add search and rescue assistance, officer protection while pursuing a hiding suspect at night, and I am sure other things I may be missing.
I think these helicopters are one of the best investments of public funds ever. They cost a lot to buy and you need two to be operational and meet transportation safety requirements. They are not cheap to operate either. I understand that.
But given the demonstrable return the taxpayers get for their money this is one line item that if you were to cut it I would describe that as unbelievably foolish.
Of all the criticisms that could be launched against unlimited police spending this one is a poor one in my view.