The Iredell County Sheriff's Office announced it has a new 27-foot patrol boat to use on Lake Norman as part of its Lake Enforcement Unit expansion.
Officials said the new boat design will allow deputies to navigate rougher waters, provides increased maneuverability and will cut down on response times. The Iredell County Sheriff's Office Lake Enforcement Unit operates 24 hours a day.
The boat was purchased using Federal Asset Forfeiture and Federal Equitable Sharing. It includes a walk-around cabin, thermal imaging technology and color video cameras to assist deputies. It also includes real-view 3D sonar, radar and navigation. The sheriff's office said the boat will be used in conjunction with fire departments and rescue squads on life-saving missions.
"As our lake communities grow, we are committed to meeting their needs," Sheriff Darren Campbell said.
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