Stafford Township, NJ – The Stafford Township Police Department proudly announced the launch of their new Marine Unit during a ceremony at The Boatyard. This unit will bolster safety and emergency response capabilities on Barnegat Bay.
The Marine Unit, led by a fully outfitted 24-foot decommissioned Coast Guard vessel, marked its maiden voyage today. The boat will be primarily used for search and rescue operations, emergency response, and maintaining safety on the water. This initiative is particularly significant given Stafford Township’s coverage of over eight square miles of Barnegat Bay and the extensive waterfront community of Beach Haven West.
The establishment of the local Marine Unit addresses the gap during peak times when resources from the New Jersey State Police Marine Unit and the U.S. Coast Guard may be stretched. The Stafford unit aims to ensure quicker response times and more comprehensive coverage. All operators are highly trained, with many holding NJ Boating Safety Certificates and Master Captain’s licenses.
In addition to emergency services, the Marine Unit will enhance community policing by engaging with boaters and waterfront residents, promoting safe boating practices, and ensuring compliance with maritime laws. The community has already shown strong support for the unit, with positive feedback following several trial runs of the vessel.
