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Police jetski used in crime crackdown
12:00pm Monday 30th June 2008
Comments (4)MARINE officers will be using a new jet ski to patrol the shores off Southend and Castle Point this summer.
The Essex Police Marine Unit has been given the jet ski by watersports company Seadoo to help boost patrols along the county's coastline, promote safety and crack down on crime.
DC Simon Lofting, acting sergeant at the unit, which is based in Burnham, said the personal watercraft is a unique tool as it can reach more populated areas, such as beaches, that standard police boats would be unable to.
He said: "The summer time can see an increased number of incidents on the water.
"Officers will use it to promote water safety, prevent crime and accidents, enforce speed limits and crack down on those breaching water bylaws.
"It will also help us to interact with the boating community as we can pull up alongside other personal water crafts and talk to them."
The Seadoo GTI 4tec personal watercraft is on loan to the unit for a year, although it is hoped this will be extended.
Your Say YourEcho
Jolly-up for me please, Essex says...
6:07pm Wed 2 Jul 08
simon lofting, Eesex Police says...
1:55pm Thu 3 Jul 08
In responce to your single sided comment Essex police patrols 350 miles of coast on a daily basis come rain, shine wind or snow 365 days a year.
Esses is also the gateway to the thames and conter terrorism partols are a large part of our day to day duties along with dealing with all marine crime and fishing bodies and searching for people who have gone missing.
None of this is a "Jolly" i can assure you, my officers go out in all conditions in all elements to keep people safe.
In addition speeding on the water causes serious accidents every year, it would be different im sure if it was your family injured due to the reckless water user on the water.
a/Sgt Simon Lofting - Essex Police Marine Unit.
Islander, Canvey says...
5:40pm Fri 1 Aug 08
There is a proliferation of Jetskis/PWCs in the area nowadays. Whereas many are probably sensible, there are a few idiots and I've seen a number of Jetskis going far to fast, far too close to beaches on Canvey where kids are swimming.
Good luck Simon.
Official launch the new police jetski in the hands of Det C on Simon Lofting
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Captain Cook, Hiding my treasure says...
5:39pm Wed 2 Jul 08
Think i'll relocate,off to the mudflats to dig up my bits