Hundreds of boaters took to the water near Holmes Beach on Labor Day afternoon. Officers with the Holmes Beach marine unit were on the water as well.
“We enforce the law just like we do on the streets, looking for speeders, expired registrations,” said Sgt. Vern McGowin.
Officers were looking for intoxicated boat captains, speeders, and expired registrations. They said boaters usually have a unique mindset.
“When you stop someone on the street they are going to work, stressed, on the boat it’s much nicer, even when you stop them the interactions are much more relaxed most the time,” said McGowin.
Officer Josh Fleischer said they try to equate the boaters they interact with.
“It is not our goal to take people to jail, but if you are breaking the law and you need to go we will take you,” said Fleischer.
Officers recommend always having life jackets, a whistle, and a fire extinguisher on the boat.
Holmes Beach marine unit officers reported no arrests on the water Monday afternoon.
