Ontario spending $134M on 5 new police helicopters

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 cost of the helicopters hasjumped from $46 million planned in this year's budget an increase that stemmed from adding a helicopter and buying them instead of leasing at the behest of the involved police services, Ford said at a news conference Monday.

"I think it's the best investment we've ever done in policing, and we just look forward to them going out there and making sure we keep our streets safe from the criminals out there," Ford said.

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 toboth 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."

WATCH | Ford says helicopters are 'bestinvestment' in policing by provincial government:

Ford: Helicopters are 'best investment' in policing by his government

29 days ago

Duration 1:08

The cost of new police helicopters is now $134 million, the Ontario government announced Monday, a substantial jump from the $46 million investment planned in the 2024 budget. Premier Doug Ford said the initial plan was to lease the choppers, but police services recommended buying the vehicles.

In a statement issued Monday, provincial Liberal Leader Bonnie Crombie said Ford has failed to properly tackle the province's auto theft issues.

"He complains about auto theft and blames everyone but himself," she said.

"The truth is that after six years of inaction, Ford isn't interested in fixing what's broken. Today's re-announcement of a previous commitment just proves the point."