The newest member of El Dorado County sheriff’s fleet is a Jet Ranger helicopter with the call sign Eagle One.

The helicopter owners, pilots Ed Rincon and Richard Moorehouse, have agreed to volunteer their services as reserve deputy sheriff’s, as well as the use of their helicopter for community service efforts. With volunteer pilots using their own aircraft, there is no cost to the taxpayers or the county. The fuel will be paid for through federal asset forfeiture funds.

The helicopter will allow deputies faster call response times. The helicopter can easily transport a few people in just minute’s time. Criminal marijuana gardens can also be easily detected from the air—making narcotics patrol easier, safer, more effective and more efficient, officials said.