Marine Enforcement Operations - Level I by IPTM

Marine Enforcement Operations - Level I

This comprehensive hands-on training program equips law enforcement officers with essential competencies in marine enforcement operations. Participants will develop proficiency across a broad spectrum of topics, ranging from foundational responsibilities of marine enforcement officers to sophisticated vessel-handling techniques and tactical approaches. The curriculum combines classroom instruction with practical field exercises and realistic scenario-based training to ensure officers can effectively apply their knowledge in authentic waterway situations.

Course Content Overview

The classroom component addresses critical legal and regulatory frameworks, including federal and state marine statutes, vessel carriage requirements, and operational compliance standards. Specialized topics such as search and rescue operations and event security details are also covered. Participants will examine the role and jurisdiction of marine enforcement officers, vessel documentation and registration procedures, hull identification protocols, and theft prevention measures.

Field training emphasizes practical survival skills and tactical competencies. Officers will participate in water survival and self-rescue drills, assisted rescue operations, injury response procedures, and hypothermia management. The program covers comprehensive boat handling from basic docking maneuvers to tactical vessel stops and advanced speed maneuvering. Additional training includes boating under the influence enforcement, vessel accident investigation, trailering operations, and law enforcement inspection procedures.

Target Audience

This course is designed for sworn active law enforcement personnel whose duties involve watercraft enforcement, officers new to marine operations, and agencies establishing new marine patrol units. Participants must be active law enforcement officers or trainees and proficient swimmers capable of functioning confidently in marine environments. Prior recreational boating experience is beneficial but not prerequisite.

Course Details

Duration: 40 hours
Dates: October 12-16, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Location: Building 1 Auditorium, St. Johns County Sheriff's Office, 911 Law Enforcement Way, Saint Augustine, FL 32092
Instructor: Adam Popp
Fee: $995.00

Requirements and Preparations

Successful course completion requires full participation in all scheduled activities, including one evening session focused on nighttime vessel operations and enforcement tactics. Participants must bring a police patrol boat (17-30 feet, single or twin engine), appropriate seasonal clothing, duty gear, and required safety equipment including personal flotation devices and boating safety cards (for those born after January 1, 1988). A flashlight and throwable rescue device are mandatory. Agencies are encouraged to provide copies of their marine policies and procedures; safety glasses for low-light operations and statute resources are recommended.

Student Feedback

Participants consistently praise the course's comprehensive curriculum and highly knowledgeable instructors. Students have noted the program's value for both novice and experienced marine officers, citing improved competency in safety procedures, tactical vessel operations, and professional marine patrol delivery. Many participants express enthusiasm for advanced training progression.