Low-flying helicopter used for roundup

The helicopter seen hovering above McMinnville this week was conducting air support for officers on the ground who were part of an ongoing drug roundup which has resulted in the arrests of several suspects.

?We had some suspects on the list who have been known to run so we thought it?d be a good idea to have the helicopter in the area in case we needed an eye in the sky,? said Sheriff Jackie Matheny of the presence of the sheriff?s helicopter seen hovering around town. ?It?s also getting close to marijuana growing season so it?s not a bad idea to get a little flying time in.?

A number of residents have called the newspaper, police department and sheriff?s department to ask why the helicopter has been flying so low around town.

Matheny pointed out that the county?s helicopter has been used as air support in past drug roundups. By having it already in the air, Matheny noted, the helicopter can respond to a manhunt much quicker. This will mark 10 years since the sheriff?s department was given helicopters through a military surplus program aimed to help local jurisdictions in the war on drugs.

As for the roundup, Matheny said an announcement of those arrested thus far, as well as a background on the joint city, county, TBI operation will be made today. Those being targeted for arrest were indicted recently as part of an undercover drug-buying operation.