BJS cover Letter

Chief John Smith December 12, 2007

Police Department

810 7^th Street NW

Washington, DC 20351

Dear Chief Smith:

The Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS), U.S. Department of Justice, is conducting a survey of state and local law enforcement agencies that operate fixed-wing aircraft or helicopters. The 2007 Census of Law Enforcement Aviation Units (LEAU) is the first systematic, national-level data collection providing much needed information about law enforcement aviation resources and operations. The purpose is to describe the locations, available assets and range, personnel, expenditures, and functions of these important units. The data will supply law enforcement agencies with a benchmark for comparative analysis with other similarly situated agencies. It will increase understanding of the valuable support that aviation units provide to ground-based police operations and to essential homeland security ventures.

BJS requests that your agency participate in the 2007 Census of Law Enforcement Aviation Units. In the 2003 Law Enforcement Management and Administrative Statistics (LEMAS) survey, you reported operating at least one fixed-wing aircraft or helicopter. In order to make the Census results comprehensive and accurate, we need the participation of all such agencies.

The Airborne Law Enforcement Association has expressed support for this survey (see attached letter). Findings will be available from the BJS website at www.ojp.usdoj.gov/bjs.

Please complete the enclosed questionnaire by February 11, 2008. Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

Allen J. Beck

Senior Statistical Advisor

Bureau of Justice Statistics