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HOUSTON, TX – The Harris County Sheriff’s Office has expanded its Air Support Unit with the addition of a new helicopter, further strengthening the agency’s ability to respond quickly and enhance public safety across the county.
The aircraft, ABLE 2, provides deputies with another critical tool to support operations on the ground by improving aerial surveillance, search capabilities, and response times across Harris County’s more than 1,700 square miles.
“Getting this aircraft is very important for the Harris County Sheriff’s Office,” said Sheriff Ed Gonzalez. “This will be an added tool for us to better protect our community.”
Several years ago, Sheriff Gonzalez and then–Chief Deputy Mike Lee identified the need to expand and strengthen the agency’s aviation capabilities to meet the demands of policing one of the nation’s largest counties.
“Helicopters are essential to modern-day law enforcement,” said Mike Lee, Director of HCSO Special Projects. “They help us provide surveillance, search for suspects or missing persons, safely manage vehicle pursuits, and support overall public safety operations.”
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office worked closely with the Harris County Office of Budget and Management to secure funding for the aircraft. Director Daniel Ramos assisted in the process, and the Harris County Commissioners Court unanimously approved the purchase.
ABLE 2 is an Airbus AS350 B3 helicopter equipped with advanced technology designed to support deputies during critical incidents.
“It gives us a lot of ability to operate in low-light and nighttime conditions, and we’re able to get out there quicker,” said Captain Chris Ecke, who oversees the Air Support Unit.
The helicopter includes enhanced infrared sensors and upgraded technology, allowing air crews to locate missing persons, track suspects, and assist deputies on the ground more effectively, particularly in difficult or low-visibility environments.
“A lot of times air support calls come in simultaneously—whether it’s for a missing child, a pursuit, or even a natural disaster,” Captain Ecke said.
With ABLE 2 now operational, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office says the aircraft will play a vital role in strengthening public safety and supporting deputies responding to emergencies across the county.
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