Marine Unit

Background


The Louisa County Sheriff's Office Marine Unit is responsible for providing watercraft and specially trained officers to patrol and respond to emergency situations on all waterways within the County of Louisa. The waterways include Lake Anna and Lake Louisa. The Marine Patrol Unit operates under the command of the Patrol Division Captain. The Marine Unit has 2 boats and multiple personal water crafts to accomplish these tasks.

The officers are also responsible for conducting safety checks on watercraft and enforcing all boating safety laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia. The Marine Unit has the ability to assist the Virginia Dept. of Game and Inland Fisheries Police and surrounding agencies in maintaining safe waterways and to respond to boating accidents or emergencies.

Responsibilities


Boating accidents and violations of boating laws involving accidents, are primarily investigated by the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (DGIF) Police. When requested and prior to the arrival of the DGIF, the Louisa County Sheriff's Office Marine Patrol Units may assist with scene security, first aid and more. The Marine unit will or may also assist surrounding agencies and the DGIF Police in sobriety and safety checking details on the waterways of Lake Anna and Louisa County

The Louisa County Sheriff's Office's Marine Unit may also assist with efforts of any Police Underwater Search and Recovery Team. They may transport the Underwater Search and Recovery Team for drowning victims, recovery of evidence, and all other times when directed or authorized by the Commanding Officer of the Patrol Division.

The Marine Unit will enforce all laws pertaining to Boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs, reckless and/or careless operation of a vessel, and all other boating and fishing laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia. If called upon or observed, the Marine Unit will respond to and assist with any and all medical emergencies on the water, and lost or disabled boaters. The Marine Unit also responds to calls for service from residents and businesses located on the waterways.