What will be the jurisdictional boundaries for the new Wrightsville Beach police boat?
Wrightsville Beach Police Chief John Carey says the territorial jurisdiction will go out from the Intracoastal Waterway to a mile offshore to the east, and from the north side of Masonboro Inlet to the south side of Mason’s Inlet. Sgt. Chris Schwartz, who will be the primary officer for the boat, will also be sworn in as a New Hanover County deputy so he can give assistance beyond that territory, if needed. As for what offenses the boat will have jurisdiction over, Carey says that will “include all state laws and regulatory boating issues,” but the main focus will be on regulating where boats can dock or anchor. It may also be used to help other departments, such as the sheriff’s office, the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission and the Coast Guard, with limited search and rescue operations. The boat has been in limited use so far but should be fully operational by the summer of 2010.
