WORCESTER – The Worcester Police Department is purchasing a police boat equipped with safety equipment to patrol Lake Quinsigamond after dusk.
According to a memo from WPD Chief Steven Sargent to acting city manager Eric Batista in response to a City Council request, the police department will purchase the boat this fiscal year. The boat will allow officers to patrol the lake any day.
The police department’s Neighborhood Response Team is currently responsible for conducting water, ramp and land enforcement on Lake Quinsigamond. NRT officers are assigned during peak hours, according to Sargent, and patrols take place four to five times each week and shore patrols have worked 40 hours at the pumping station on North Lake Avenue. The officers assigned to the pumping station help enforce city ordinances and put a stop to unruly behavior on the lake.
Police assigned two officers to the Worcester Fire Department’s boat and help enforce responsible boating operations on the lake. The officers work with the Shrewsbury Police Department and the Massachusetts Environmental Police. The joint operation addresses complaints and public safety issues.
During the summer months, officers assigned to the Summer Impact program patrol beaches, pools and recreational areas, including at Regatta Point on Lake Quinsigamond. The officers work foot beats during peak times at Regatta Point to interact with residents and help deter crime.
Lead image: stock photo of police boat
