Gwinnett Police to Join Rangers on Lake Lanier Patrol

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources announced Thursday it will team up with Gwinnett Police Department to maximize resources and coverage of Lake Lanier.

In a press release, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Wildlife Resources Division, said the two agencies would be launching a boating safety initiative designed to increase a law enforcement presence on the lake and help address issues such as boating under the influence (BUI).

A Lake Lanier press conference will be held at 5 p.m. on June 28, when law enforcement will discuss the new partnership.

This action follows the Lake Lanier accident 10 days ago that killed two brothers. The body of 13-year-old Griffin Prince was located June 27. His brother, Jake, died on June 18 when the pontoon boat they were riding in was hit by a boat driven by Paul Bennett, 44, of Cumming. Bennett was charged with BUI and could face additional charges.

"With limited budgets and personnel numbers, our two agencies have created an innovative way to increase the number of patrol boats and law enforcement officers on Lake Lanier," said Col. Eddie Henderson, of the state Department of Natural Resources. "Police officers will be paired with rangers in DNR patrol boats. This will allow us to put more boats on the water year round for high-traffic weekends, holidays and special events."

Currently, officials said DNR can staff two to three patrol boats with four to six rangers during high-traffic weekends. Starting June 30, Lake Lanier will have up to five boats patrolling with 10 law enforcement professionals. This additional enforcement will be in time for the busy fourth of July holiday week.

"Lake Lanier draws 7.5 million visitors annually, including many from Gwinnett County," said Police Chief Charles Walter, of Gwinnett Police Department. "The Boating Safety Initiative will allow us to efficiently and effectively team up with the DNR to enforce safety and protect our citizens."

Gwinnett officers will have intensive training on Friday, including instruction in boating safety, vessel laws, boat inspections, water safety, BUI enforcement, boat registration, water rescue and boat safety checks. DNR patrol boats will be used for the initiative, officials said.

"This partnership is one piece of the puzzle," Henderson said. "Boating safety requires a multi-faceted approach. From the law enforcement side, we are pleased to have such strong partners with us."

Gwinnett's District 4 Commissioner John Heard said, "I commend the DNR and our Police Department for working together to patrol Lake Lanier. The increased presence of officers will remind residents to practice boating safety while enjoying the lake."

For more information on boating, visit goboatgeorgia.com/boating.