Aviation Unit Disbanded More Deputies Deployed

Above: Sheriff Bob White with Pilot John Perez explaining disbanding of Aviation Unit.

The 60 day process of disbanding the aviation unit has begun putting four more deputies deployed on the front-lines in Pasco County. The funds for one observer, one mechanic, and two pilots in the unit will be redeployed into positions as road patrol deputies. Earlier this year, a sergeant's position in the unit was also moved to road patrol.

The four helicopters in the unit will be returned to the federal government, where they were originally obtained via a grant program. The lease for the aviation unit hanger will provide an estimated $60,000 savings a year and a fixed-wing airplane will be placed on Aerotrader.com for an asking price of $100,000.

Total estimated expenses available for reallocation to other law enforcement needs are about $158,000 a year.