Forty Odd
I understand that the job of the police helicopter units is a demanding operational role governed by rules which are strictly obeyed. Most of us appreciate the work you do greatly. I think that I would enjoy doing the job myself.
You imply that I think there is a level of 'cowboy' behaviour going on here. Quite the opposite but it is difficult to apply a safety standard to heavy mechanical objects flying over built up, densely populated areas. Any pilot should feel uneasy about doing this and will constantly be thinking about escape routes.
I am not familiar with your particular rule book but I would lay money on it being changed to some extent after this event if only as a knee jerk reaction.
As for my 'anything goes' comment.. I would also put money on there being a caveat somewhere near the beginning of the rule book which absolves crews of some responsibility if they act in good faith and in the best interests of the service and public safety etc.. Tell me it's not true!
Keep up the good work.