The Ontario government is purchasing five new police helicopters to be used in the Greater Toronto Area and in Ottawa, at a cost of $134 million.
In a news release issued Monday, provincial officials said the helicopters would be used in instances of auto theft, carjackings, street racing and impaired driving.
“Our government is making the necessary investments to ensure that police services have the tools and resources they need to crack down on auto theft and car thieves,” said Premier Doug Ford, in a statement.
The province says that as part of a new joint air support unit, Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) will acquire two new H135 helicopters that will provide support to both Ottawa and Toronto police services.
The other three helicopters will be procured, owned and operated by Durham, Halton and Peel police respectively, the news release reads.
“Criminal networks have become more sophisticated, but so have we,” said Solicitor General Michael Kerzner, in a statement. “In Ontario, a car is stolen every 14 minutes — this is completely unacceptable. These helicopters will be a critical tool in helping police stay one step ahead of the criminals who are stealing cars and committing crimes on our streets.”