Outagamie County buys, tests new patrol boat

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The Outagamie County Sheriff's Department brought its new 20-foot,center console patrol boat to the Fox River near Peabody Park onTuesday for training. Officers traveled to Florida to pick up theboat from its manufacturer two weeks ago.
Staff Sgt. Bob Bekx, supervisor of the boat patrol, said thedepartment's 18-foot, 70-horsepower boat would have been inadequatefor enforcement once larger boats start to join fishermen on theriver.
He credited the department for its early purchase.
"It's better to have it and learn how to use it rather than to waituntil its needed," he said.
While just 2 feet longer, the new boat has a higher profile and ispowered by a 200-horsepower motor. Bekx said the boat shouldincrease rescue capabilities and give officers a better vantagepoint while patrolling the river.
Outagamie County purchased the boat, motor and trailer. Radios,lighting and other equipment were purchased through state grantmoney, according to the sheriff's department.
Tuesday's daylong water training session included Appleton andKaukauna firefighters and state conservation wardens.
Exercises included on-water firearms and Taser training andswiftwater rescues.
Officers also trained for handling intoxicated boaters.