Aviation Unit
The Toledo Police Aviation Unit started operations in September 2001. The purpose of this unit is to protect and serve the citizens of our community, increase officer safety, reduce crime through aerial patrol and enhance community support for law enforcement.
The Aviation Unit consists of two patrol officers, Officers Bruce Helppie and Jeffrey Violanti, and is commanded by Captain Leo Eggert of the Special Enforcement Bureau. The officers were required to pass the FAA Private and Commercial pilot written tests and the required flight test to obtain their Private Pilot helicopter certificates. The police department has recently initiated an observer program wherein sworn police officers accompany the pilot to act as the primary "set of eyes" to track suspicious activity on the ground, freeing the pilot to devote his attention to safely operating the aircraft.
The Aviation Unit utilizes the Robinson R-44 Helicopter, a high performance, turn-key aerial platform designed and equipped specifically for law enforcement agencies. The R-44 design was optimized for speed, reliability and low maintenance. Its clean, aerodynamic design allows a high cruise speed of 130 mph and an average fuel consumption of 12 to 15 gallons per hour.
"Air One" has been instrumental in the apprehension of countless running suspects, fleeing vehicles, the coordination of ground units at major incidents, and has responded to numerous requests for assistance from law enforcement agencies in Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan.
The Toledo Police Aviation Unit is based at St. Vincent
Hospital, home of the Life Flight Operations for St. Vincent/MCO
Hospitals. 