The Irwindale Police Department is a proud partner in the Foothill Air Support Team, otherwise known as FAST. The FAST program is a partnership between the Cities of Alhambra, Arcadia, Covina, Glendora, Irwindale, Monrovia, Pasadena, Pomona, San Marino, Sierra Madre and South Pasadena.
FAST was developed in 1999 after several local cities expressed an interest in airborne law enforcement. These agencies chose to form a joint helicopter patrol operation that could enhance their ability to deter criminal activity and apprehend offenders. Other cities joined the program over the years and FAST grew into the comprehensive operation it is today.
FAST helicopter crews monitor police radio calls within the FAST cities and they respond on calls where an airborne response would prove beneficial to officers on the ground. Once overhead, the air crew provides an aerial platform for ground operations. This areal platform provides a tremendous level of intelligence, direction, and coordination for officers on the ground.
When not responding to calls for service, the FAST air crews constantly search out criminal activity and/or monitor problem locations within the FAST cities.
The FAST program is integral in providing additional support and police coverage for the city of Irwindale!