NEW CITY, NY – Rockland County Legislators have unanimously approved the purchase of a new boat for the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit, ensuring that officers are equipped with the necessary tools for patrol and emergency response along the Hudson River.
The new vessel will replace a 26-year-old boat that has been reconditioned twice and is no longer adequate for the demands of modern-day river patrols and emergency situations. Legislator Joel Friedman, Chairman of the Planning & Public Works Committee, highlighted the critical need for the replacement, emphasizing that the current 1999 boat has reached the end of its operational lifespan.
“The Sheriff’s Office needs this new boat because the current vessel is well beyond its better days,” said Legislator Friedman. “The unit relies on these boats for much more than routine patrols; they respond to life-threatening emergencies such as plane crashes, capsizing incidents, and search-and-rescue efforts. It’s essential that they have the right equipment to handle these critical situations.”
The Marine Unit currently operates two boats with enclosed cabins that allow for year-round use, weather permitting, and a smaller, open boat suitable for shallow water operations. These vessels are equipped to carry out law enforcement duties, search-and-rescue operations, and respond to ecological concerns. The new 27-foot SAFE Boat, purchased from Safe Boats International in Bremerton, WA, will be equipped with advanced technology and provide enhanced capabilities for the unit.
The new boat, which will cost $575,000, is being funded through the federal Department of Homeland Security’s 2024 FEMA Port Security grant, previously accepted by the County Legislature and Executive. In addition to the purchase, the funding will cover training for boat operations and the installation of modern equipment.
Sheriff’s Marine Unit officers, along with divers, EMTs, firefighters, and other law enforcement personnel, use the boats to respond to a wide range of emergencies. In 2024, the Marine Unit responded to 525 incidents, including three drownings, 12 search and rescue operations, 26 vessel distress calls, and numerous assists to other agencies.
The Marine Unit patrols Rockland County’s 33-mile water boundary, providing enforcement, safety, and ecological services. It also ensures security at key infrastructure sites, including the Bear Mountain and Governor Mario Cuomo (Tappan Zee) Bridges, in collaboration with the U.S. Coast Guard and other law enforcement agencies.
“This new boat will greatly enhance the Marine Unit’s ability to respond quickly and effectively to emergencies, ensuring the safety of our residents and visitors,” said Sheriff Louis Falco. “With this addition, our officers will be better equipped to serve the community and continue to protect lives on the Hudson River.”
The purchase of this new vessel is another step in ensuring that the Sheriff’s Office remains prepared and capable of handling the variety of challenges that arise on the river. The unit’s vital work in law enforcement, search and rescue, and ecological protection continues to be a cornerstone of public safety in Rockland County.