Sheriff Gregory Tony. {BSO}
A Message from Sheriff Gregory Tony:
Facing increasing demands and complexities of modern emergencies, the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) has taken steps to enhance its capabilities through a transformative investment in three state-of-the-art helicopters for both the Department of Law Enforcement Aviation Unit and the Department of Fire Rescue and Emergency Services Air Rescue team. The tragic loss of Battalion Chief Terryson Jackson in August 2023, following a devastating helicopter accident, serves as a solemn reminder of the risks we face every day we come to work. Our new helicopters honor his legacy and provide our first responders with critical, cutting-edge tools to elevate emergency response and protect lives.
BSO’s award-winning Aviation Unit is the sole provider of airborne law enforcement support for all of Broward County. In 2024, the unit flew nearly 2,800 missions and recorded over 1,600 flight hours. Historically operating with two helicopters, the unit welcomed a third Airbus H125 aircraft in mid-November 2024. This state-of-the-art platform, known for its advanced technology and performance capabilities, is equipped with FLIR 380-HDc cameras, digital mapping systems and enhanced navigation tools, providing unparalleled precision and efficiency. The additional aircraft ensures continuous coverage, even during routine maintenance, reducing downtime and improving operational reliability. In 2024, the team’s aerial support proved instrumental, aiding in nearly 500 arrests by providing ground units with critical real-time information. The new airship will continue to boost the success of this unit with enhanced capabilities, allowing for quicker emergency response times and expanded surveillance reach.
The Department of Fire Rescue and Emergency Services has significantly upgraded its fleet with two Airbus H145 helicopters, replacing the older EC135 model. The H145s offer increased power, greater payload capacity and advanced features for emergency rescue and firefighting. Key upgrades include hoisting systems for remote rescues, a Bambi Bucket for aerial firefighting, especially in areas like the Everglades, enhanced flight systems with advanced navigation, modern cockpits for improved safety and expanded cabin space for two patients. These helicopters, along with our highly trained crews, will enable faster response times and ultimately save more lives.
To honor the legacy of Battalion Chief Jackson, our new fire rescue helicopters will bear his name. These state-of-the-art aircraft represent an ongoing effort to provide our first responders with the best possible tools to protect our community.
Equipping our first responders with the most advanced tools, technology and training will continue to be a public safety priority at BSO. Our preparedness ensures we are ready to meet today’s challenges while working toward building a stronger, safer community for the future.
Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony
Service Equals Reward
Certain Broward cities like Coconut Creek, Hallandale Beach, Pembroke Pines, Sunrise, Plantation, Davie, Margate, Miramar, Lauderhill, Lighthouse Point, and Coral Springs maintain their police departments; however, BSO does provide communications and dispatch services to the following cities: Central Broward, Cooper City, Dania Beach, Deerfield Beach, Ft Lauderdale-Hollywood Int’l Airport, Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, Lauderdale Lakes, North Lauderdale, Oakland Park, Parkland, West Park, Pompano Beach, Port Everglades, Tamarac, Weston, and unincorporated West Broward.
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