Understanding the Challenges of Criminal Helicopters and Law Enforcement Helicopters

In the world of criminal activities, the helicopter has become an increasingly favored mode of transportation by those seeking to evade justice. However, when an illegal helicopter is encountered by law enforcement, the situation can be complex and dangerous. This article explores the strategies employed by law enforcement helicopters and the potential risks involved.

Law Enforcement Helicopters: A Multi-Faceted Approach

Law enforcement helicopters, such as the C26 aircraft and MC12W, are equipped with advanced technology to track and apprehend criminals. These aircraft often feature a FLIR (Forward Looking Infrared) system, which allows law enforcement to track suspects from great heights, like monitoring drug dealers from 20,000 feet, thanks to their exceptional look-down shoot-down radar capabilities.

Law enforcement agencies also work in conjunction with National Guard units, air traffic control (ATC), and other military bases. When a stolen or illegal helicopter is spotted, they may call in the closest Air Guard unit or other military resources. The goal is to track the helicopter and determine the best course of action to apprehend the criminal safely.

Strategies for Apprehending Criminal Helicopters

One of the primary strategies involves closing in on the criminal helicopter until it runs out of fuel. This approach can be effective, as the helicopter will eventually have to land, providing law enforcement with the opportunity to make an arrest. However, if the helicopter evades a direct approach, law enforcement may also use other helicopters or planes to track the suspect, ensuring a safe landing or potential crash landing.

Should the criminal helicopter choose to engage in an unlawful flight, the next step is to try to follow the aircraft with radar. This allows law enforcement to monitor its movements without directly engaging in a pursuit. While the helicopter can evade air traffic control radars or a ground-based chase, it is crucial to keep air traffic control informed and ensure that all necessary police units are ready to intercept the suspect when it lands.

Conceptual Controversies and Ethical Considerations

The primary challenge lies in the ethical considerations surrounding the use of force. There is no guaranteed way to force a suspect helicopter to land without risking the lives of innocent civilians. In cases where evidence indicates that a helicopter may be carrying explosives and is potentially planned to attack a school or public venue, authorities may be justified in using force as a last resort.

Such examples, as noted in the literature, have shown that criminal operators might abandon their aircraft after successfully taking a criminal away, knowing full well that the aircraft will be abandoned. This strategy leaves the criminal pilots with more options and flexibility compared to legally flying pilots, who adhere to strict rules and regulations.

On the ground, the police officers typically have a primary role of 'observe and report,' ensuring that all legal and administrative procedures are followed. The goal is to gather sufficient evidence to ensure that any actions taken are in accordance with the law.

In the air, law enforcement helicopters focus on tracking the aircraft and coordinating with ground units to ensure a safe and effective approach when the criminal helicopter must land.

Ultimately, the apprehension of criminal helicopters requires a balanced approach, combining advanced technology, strategic planning, and ethical considerations to ensure the safety of all involved parties.