Tehama County Sheriff’s Department Hosting Public Meeting On Formation Of An Air Unit

The Tehama County Sheriff’s Department is contemplating the development of a Sheriff’s Aviation Unit. The aircraft would be used for search and rescue, crime scene photos, SWAT operations and rural patrols. Administrators hope to acquire surplus military aircraft and would attempt to seek funding through grants. They’re exploring the availability of local pilots. A meeting to gather public input will take place July 13th at 2 O’clock at the Search and Rescue Building at 2010 Park Avenue in Red Bluff. The Sheriff’s Office has struggled with budget issues for years, recently losing deputies wiled away by higher paying agencies, limiting office hours and temporarily suspending services including nighttime patrols.