BUNNELL, Fla. – Flagler County has introduced a cutting-edge resource to aid authorities in quicker response times and lifesaving missions.

The county recently acquired a 2018 Bell 505 helicopter, known as the Jet Ranger X, with a market value of $1.42 million. This purchase was facilitated through a combination of confiscated drug funds, surplus budget savings from the year, and a significant contribution from Dan Newlin, as per an official announcement.

“Our primary concern is public safety,” stated Sheriff Rick Staly. “With the generosity of Mr. Dan Newlin, along with utilizing the proceeds from drug busts and one-time budget savings, we secured a high-tech helicopter for less than half its full price.”

The collaborative effort included $125,000 sourced from confiscated drug funds and $575,000 from budgetary savings, summing up to $700,000. Newlin contributed the remaining $720,000 of the helicopter’s value, along with an additional $30,000 in equipment.

The Bell 505 helicopter is set to bolster the sheriff’s office capabilities in search and rescue operations, aerial law enforcement support, and medical evacuations. It is equipped with an advanced FLIR camera system, a powerful night-sun spotlight, and medevac capabilities.

Unlike drones, the helicopter can carry personnel and equipment to remote or hard-to-access areas, conduct emergency medical airlifts, and operate over greater distances, extending the sheriff’s office’s operational range and response time, the news release states.

“This donation is about giving back to the community and helping law enforcement do their jobs more effectively,” Dan Newlin said. “When I learned about the Sheriff’s Office’s need for a helicopter, I knew it was an opportunity to make a real difference. This aircraft will help save lives, protect families, and keep Flagler County safe for years to come.”

The sheriff’s office has also partnered with the East Flagler Mosquito Control District, which will house the helicopter at its facility.

The helicopter will operate under the sheriff’s Special Operations Section and will complement the existing drone aviation program.

Before the acquisition, trauma medevac needs often relied on helicopters from Jacksonville, and law enforcement air support sometimes had to be requested from as far away as Seminole County, causing delays.

“I tried to work with FCFR to increase medevac and law enforcement availability with FireFlight, but that discussion was not successful, so I worked for a cost-affordable public-private partnership,” Sheriff Staly added. “It’s been a long time coming, and we’re excited to soon give our deputies the additional aerial support they need to protect and serve our community. This helicopter is a game-changer for Flagler County.”