Mickjoebill:
I think that he R44 Police comes with an FS Ultra 8000, which is not so bad, The new MX10 gimbal, Ultra 8500 or the Talon would be heaps good enough and sufficiently light to make this platform very effective up to about 5-6,000 ft where police helos never really go. they are low level assets (essentially blow 2,000 ft most of the time. Big sensor gimbal and long lens is a complete waste of time, plus they are BIG bucks.
Paperboy:
Again, its horses for courses, as a visible deterrent with a fast on site response time, EO/IR sensor and Police communications would enable this to work well in and around the GC precincts. From 1500 ft along the glitter gulch, the beach or motorway reserves may provide reasonable emergency areas. However, if winching, medevec and rescue work is included in the mission requirements, this this is clearly not a suitable choice.
D-J
S/E piston is really no less reliable than Turbine, despite the knockers. the R44 police model is an accepted rotary wing airborne Law enforcement tool in the US, and can be here if used in the correct roles. It is affordable and effective, and much better than not having the M/E turbine that you cannot afford.
If coppers are so sensitive that they are happy to ride pushies around while wearing spandex shorts and tops, and poncy bike helmets, not to mention the gayest looking sunnies in the world, I can't see why they would be so embarrassed about being seen in a Robbo.
Widdowmaker, what ccok!, it is almost litigious to use inflammatory statements like that. it's good enough for LAPD to use S/E , but not the GC Mayor's office?, Heloo Boys, toughen up and say thanks, rather than acting like spoilt children. If you have concerns, real. honest concerns, express them through the correct means, not the Courier FFS! This sounds like a hyped up story, that is getting for more media oxygen than it deserves.
HD