For law enforcement agencies, starting a brand-new aviation unit, completing successful missions and staying under budget can seem like an impossible task. However – with Bell’s aid – Stockton Police Department proves that acquiring an affordable helicopter that helps protect communities is very possible. The city of Stockton is home to 350,000 citizens, 485 authorized officers and now, an aviation unit with a Bell 505. After a long journey to win approval and secure funding for this unit, Chief Pilot Daniel Lowry and Sgt. Rich Buckley now use the aircraft to provide aerial support for their teams.

“Defining the mission is the first step,” said Lowry. “An obvious second step is that funding source. However, we've discovered, especially with the Bell 505, is a lot cheaper than a lot of people think.” The officers knew to be up front about spending, including maintenance costs, and not try to downplay any expenses. Likewise, Bell is equipped to consult with customers about budget constraints and financing options. Together, the teams were able to kickstart the air unit at an affordable rate. And for the reason they chose the Bell 505, its performance stood out as the winning factor. “The power is really impressive,” Lowry remarked. “I think that was probably what impressed me the most; I was really shocked.”

After getting over the hurdle of acquiring the right aircraft, the Stockton officers needed to prove that it was worth it. This is where Bell’s excellent support made a difference. “We have some amazing people around us, and Bell’s customer service is unreal,” said Buckley. “Anytime there was an issue, immediately, people were on it and getting it taken care of.” The aircraft reliability and immediate reactions from Bell teams ensured that the program started off without any problems, much to Lowry’s relief. “We never lost any patrol time and that was huge. It was one of my biggest fears because we don't have any room for error when we’re just beginning missions.”

As for the day-to-day operations, the officers were able to provide critical assistance in an arrest within hours of their first flight. After 20 successful pursuits and more than 2000 completed tasks, they’re solving community problems and adding value with the Bell 505. As for what’s next, Lowry and Buckley that they are in need of more pilots to fly the aircraft. They’re eager to advance the program and create more solutions for the people of Stockton, and the teams at Bell are ready to support.