Patrolling the New York waters

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Governor Andrew M. Cuomo and the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation announced last week that six New Brunswick “Justice” Patrol Boats have been assigned to State and local law enforcement agencies across New York. The watercraft will be used to assist with marine law enforcement efforts on waterways throughout the State.

“New York is blessed with an abundance of waterways that offer unparalleled opportunities for outdoor recreation,” Cuomo said, “and by increasing the presence of law enforcement agencies on the water, we are ensuring that they continue to be as safe as they are enjoyable.”

This year’s patrol vessels were assigned to the Long Island municipalities of Hempstead and Shelter Island, along with the New York State Police, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Department, the New York State Park Police and the Lake George Park Commission. The vessels, valued at approximately $125,000 each, were made possible through the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund administered by the U.S. Coast Guard, which provides funding to the states to assist with recreational boating safety. The primary mission for these vessels will be the safety of recreational boaters and enforcement of NYS navigation laws.

New York has allocated $2.1 million this year to defray the costs of marine safety efforts for 53 law enforcement agencies across the state. Since 1959, New York State has supported boater safety through financial assistance in support of marine law enforcement patrols.

“Tourists and residents alike enjoy New York State for its plentiful lakes, rivers and coastal waters, which provide many spectacular and diverse places for boating and fishing,” said State Parks Commissioner Rose Harvey. “And with so many boaters taking advantage of these great destinations, it is crucial that the State supports local law enforcement efforts to help keep boaters safe, and ensure a fun and enjoyable experience on the water.”

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