Bronx:
You're in a great position to lead the country in cutting edge technology, here!
We were in the same situation 4-5 years ago when it was decided to replace our ageing aircraft.
We fly in probably the most demanding police force area in the UK. 9000 sq miles of rugged terrain, 450 miles of coastline, mountains, lakes and a population which trebles during the 'silly season'. If it wasn't for the military (on the whole) supplying SAR then we would trully be a fully paid up member of the paramilitary brigade.
I'll assume your police officers are paramedic and winch trained.
Dependent on your endurance requirements I would suggest pushing the boat out and looking at the >3 tonnes twin class.
It's almost certain that if you go down the route of purchasing light twins (135 / 902 / 109 / Bell, now, then within 5-8 years you'll be complaining of lack of payload/endurance/performance. Police ops is almost certainly underdeveloped (UK) and they are slowly beginning to realise what a potent capability they have.
We currently fly the EC135 and I can see a time when demands will require us to move up to the next class. More and more we are being asked to get involved in complex operations which require either a greater payload (firearms teams to be taken greater distances, or carry more of them/staying airborne for longer)or carry specialist equipment (intercepting boats off shore - winching / rapid roping). If the government relinquish responsibility for military SAR cover, the onus may fall back to the police. All in all, if I was to recommend a new generation helo to take the unit forward into the 21st century it would be a new generation 3 tonne class.
I don't know how much of a foothold European helo manufacturers have over there but they have a very comprehensive suite of helos to cater for your needs.
BUY NEW GENERATION TECHNOLOGY or your running costs living with past technology (let alone back up support), will bleed you dry!!
You're bound to get a good deal, talking the numbers you're looking for....make this the best decision of the year or watch out!
PS: give the USA 'soccer' team a chuck up will you, they are doing you a great service over in Japan....
TC