Of the 57 narcotics detection teams, 20 are additionally trained in cadaver detection.
The bloodhound teams are utilized exclusively for tracking. There are currently 29 explosives detection canine teams, 57 narcotic detection teams and four bloodhound teams. The Unit has grown from those original three teams to its current strength of more than 90. The three canines were put into service as explosives detection canines in preparation for the 1980 Winter Olympic Games in Lake Placid, New York. The New York State Police created the Division Canine Unit in 1975. Aerial support at emergency scenes and large-scale planned events.The New York State Police Aviation unit provides a variety of services throughout the state. Additionally, the unit flies the following airplanes: Beechcraft King Air 250, Cessna 206, Cessna 172, and Partnavia P68.
The unit currently flies the following helicopters: Sikorsky S76D, Bell 407, Bell 430, and Bell UH-1 Huey. The diversity of the unit’s missions requires it to fly both helicopters and fixed wing airplanes. Today, the unit has over 40 pilots and 21 aircraft. In 1998, the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation’s flight department was merged into the State Police Aviation Unit. In 1967 the unit was reformed, and again consisted of only one single-engine aircraft, a Cessna 172. The New York State Police Aviation Unit was formed in 1931 and consisted of only one fixed wing aircraft. All stations are staffed with aircrew who provide full-service aerial support for responses to emergencies, as well as large-scale planned events. Other stations are located at Adirondack Regional Airport in Saranac Lake, Stewart International Airport in Newburgh and Greater Rochester International Airport.
The stations are strategically located to provide maximum coverage of available aviation resources throughout the state. The New York State Police Aviation Unit consists of four stations, with the headquarters located at the Albany International Airport.