The
Marine Patrol Unit is one of the Butler County Sheriff’s Office “Emergency
Services Units”.The Marine Patrol has several functions, which have evolved with
public needs since it’s inception. The Marine Patrol functions are both on duty
(emergency responses) and enforcement patrol (grant funding).
During
the summer months is the most visible function the Sheriff’s Office Marine
Patrol. Deputies will patrol the County waterways and perform such functions as
Boat Inspections, monitor operator operation, tow broken down boats back to the
dock or ramp, watch for navigational problems and assist boaters wherever
possible. In the event an accident does occur, Deputies are there to render aid
investigate the accident and complete the required State Reports.
Water Rescue is an obvious spin-off of the Enforcement Function of the Marine Patrol Deputies. This group of the Marine Patrol Unit is also responsible for recovery (dragging) operations that stem mostly from drowning. The Marine Patrol’s primary Rescue/Recovery boat is equipped with a sonar unit to show bottom terrain and can pick up a body that is suspended off the bottom.
The
Marine Patrol also has Underwater Rescue/Recovery Deputies commonly referred to
as the Dive Team. Within the Marine Patrol, the Sheriff’s Office have a group
of certified scuba divers. All have been trained in basic and advanced scuba
techniques as well as an assortment of specialty courses ranging from underwater
navigation to underwater evidence collection.
The Butler County Sheriff’s Office is committed to provide an enjoyable and safe recreational boating season. In addition, he insists that emergency calls for rescue, search and other assistance be answered in a highly professional manner. The Marine Patrol Unit stands ready to provide those professional services that Butler County citizens not only deserve but have grown to expect from their Sheriff’s Office.
