TAMPA BAY, Fla. — The Captain of the Port announced Monday the security zones the Coast Guard will establish in support of the Republican National Convention here.
Although much of the security plan is sensitive law enforcement information and cannot be released, visible measures will include waterside security zones, increased harbor patrols and increased inspections of merchant and recreational boats.
“Our multi-mission capabilities make the Coast Guard uniquely qualified as a leader in maritime homeland security,” said Capt. Sheryl Dickinson, Captain of the Port and commanding officer of Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg. “We will blend our capabilities with our maritime law enforcement partners to create a layered approach to RNC safety and security.”
Coast Guard security boats will work with local, state and federal enforcement partners to enforce permanent and temporary waterside security zones and patrol waterways throughout the Tampa Bay region. Violators are subject to a maximum penalty of six years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.
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Boaters can report suspicious activity to the Coast Guard through VHF-FM channel 16 or call 911.
For more information contact 727-265-5353 or email RNCWaterways@uscg.mil.
