The King County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO) has added a new $6.8 million helicopter, Guardian One, to its fleet to enhance emergency response efforts in western Washington. This state-of-the-art aircraft is designed to tackle unpredictable weather and reach any location in King County within 20 minutes, providing real-time situational awareness to officers on the ground. 

Guardian One King County Sheriff
Guardian One King County Sheriff / Getty / Canva
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Guardian One King County Sheriff

Funded by taxpayers, Guardian One represents a significant upgrade, complementing the sheriff’s office's existing fleet, which includes two older Huey helicopters and a Bell 407, now serving as a backup. The new helicopter is expected to operate for at least 10 years, offering crucial support in locating missing persons, saving lives, and de-escalating situations without the use of force. 

Guardian One King County Sheriff
Guardian One King County Sheriff / Getty / Canva
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Guardian One King County Sheriff

Key Features and Capabilities 

Guardian One is equipped to handle adverse weather conditions, making it a vital asset in a region known for its unpredictable climate. Its ability to quickly reach any part of the county means that law enforcement can respond more effectively to emergencies, pursuits, and other high-stakes situations. 

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Guardian One King County Sheriff
Guardian One King County Sheriff / Getty / Canva
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Guardian One King County Sheriff

Long-Term Impact 

Over the next decade, the helicopter is expected to play a crucial role in saving lives and assisting in critical missions. Whether it's locating a missing person or helping to peacefully resolve a dangerous pursuit, Guardian One will be at the forefront of KCSO's efforts to protect the community. 

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For the past 10 years, the American Association of State Troopers has held a contest to determine which state has the best looking patrol cruiser. Nearly every state police agency submits their best photo of their sharpest patrol vehicle a chance to win the coveted cover photo on the association's annual calendar. From cop cars rushing through blizzards to vehicles on the Grand Ole Opry stage, here are this 2023's nominees.

Gallery Credit: Rob Carroll

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