ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Two officers from the Maryland Natural Resources Police (NRP) have been nominated for national awards recognizing their exceptional efforts in enforcing impaired boating laws during the high-risk summer season. This recognition comes as part of the annually observed Operation Dry Water, a nationwide initiative aimed at reducing incidents of boating under the influence.
Officer First Class Coby Blum and Officer First Class Mitchell Muise stood out for their proactive enforcement actions and are slated to be honored at the upcoming National Association of State Boating Law Administrators Annual Conference in New Orleans. The conference, scheduled from September 17-19, 2024, focuses on the advancement of boating safety regulations and the commendable work of law enforcement personnel across the country.
Colonel Orlando Lilly, head of the NRP, praised the dedication of these officers. “Ensuring safety on Maryland’s waterways is essential, not just on holiday weekends but every day,” Lilly said. “These officers exemplify the commitment required to tackle the crucial issue of boating under the influence, which remains a leading cause of water-related accidents.”
Statistics underscore the importance of such enforcement. Over the past four years, alcohol has contributed to more than 30% of boating-related deaths in Maryland, reflecting a troubling national trend where alcohol use is a primary factor in boating fatalities.
During the Independence Day weekend, a period known for bustling aquatic activity and heightened risks, Blum managed the law enforcement on Deep Creek Lake in Garrett County. He conducted 58 boat stops resulting in 27 citations and multiple warnings for various boating safety infractions. His rigorous effort also included responding to a severe boating incident and making arrests in two cases of boating under the influence.
Similarly, on the Choptank River in Dorchester County, Muise’s vigilance during the same holiday weekend led to the stopping of 66 boats and issuance of 32 citations and warnings. His efforts contributed to the handling of multiple alcohol-related offenses, resulting in arrests that undoubtedly prevented potential mishaps.
Over the course of just three days, from July 4 to July 6, officers from NRP issued a total of 730 warnings and 209 citations, highlighting the scale and impact of the enforcement operation.
The Operation Dry Water initiative, apart from making arrests, also aims at educating boaters about the dangers of alcohol consumption on water. National data further supports the initiative’s relevance, illustrating a persistent issue where boating excursions marred by alcohol use lead to tragic outcomes.
As the awards approach, the efforts of Blum and Muise not only position them as exemplary officers but also spotlight the broader ongoing commitment of the Maryland Natural Resources Police to maintain safety and enforce the law on its waterways. Their work is a reminder of the critical role that law enforcement plays in safeguarding boating activities, ensuring that Maryland’s waterways are enjoyed responsibly by all.