LAPD Helicopter Audit Audit of the Los Angeles Police Department’s Air Support Division

By Los Angeles City Controller

The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Air Support Division (ASD) operates the largest municipal airborne law enforcement unit in the country, with 17 helicopters and more than 90 employees. The program was initially shaped during the 1970s, when Los Angeles was experiencing an especially high rate of violence and homicides. The stated mission of ASD is to “enhance officer and public safety, reduce the incidence of crime and thus reduce the fear of crime” by supporting the operations of ground-based officers and specialized units of the LAPD through aerial patrols and special flights. While there are situations, such as vehicle pursuits, kidnappings, and violent crime response, where helicopters can provide critical support and increase the likelihood of apprehending suspects, there is a lack of empirical evidence that demonstrates a clear link between helicopter patrols and crime reduction. However, there has been limited public discussion about whether the size of the division and deployment strategy are aligned with the current needs of the City. This report examines the LAPD’s use of helicopters from fiscal year (FY) 2018 through FY 2022, and explores whether the department has justified the need for the current size and scope of the air support program. It offers recommendations for reducing inefficiencies, improving data collection and management, and boosting transparency and performance monitoring. This information is intended to help the public, LAPD, and policymakers make informed decisions about the City’s investment in police air support operations.

Los Angeles: Office of the City Controller, 2023.   65p.