Evansville, IN – The City of Evansville has launched a new River Patrol Unit in a joint effort between the Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office and the Evansville Police Department, marking the return of a dedicated law enforcement presence on the Ohio River for the first time in more than 25 years.
The unit was officially unveiled on April 17 during a public event where Mayor Stephanie Terry christened the patrol boat in a local tradition, using a bottle of Ski soda. Officials said the launch represents a significant step forward in strengthening public safety across the region’s waterways.
The new River Patrol Unit will be responsible for covering approximately 36 miles of shoreline throughout Vanderburgh County, including key areas such as the Port of Evansville. Authorities also noted that the unit will be available to assist neighboring jurisdictions when additional support is needed.
Funding for the patrol vessel was partially provided through grants from the Federal Emergency Management Agency and a United States Coast Guard Port Security partnership. Additional financial support was secured through a grant from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources Division of Law Enforcement, which will cover overtime costs associated with patrol operations.
Officials stated that the new unit is intended to enhance emergency response capabilities, improve security along the Ohio River, and strengthen coordination between local and state agencies.
