(LaPorte County, IN) - The LaPorte Sheriff's Department has upgraded its marine capabilities.

The LaPorte County Sheriff's Office added to its fleet recently, replacing an aging Boston Whaler watercraft. The 21-foot rigid-hulled inflatable took its maiden voyage on Pine Lake last week. The new Marine Patrol Unit can be deployed on any LaPorte County body of water, including Lake Michigan. It can also serve as a platform for divers in underwater rescues and recoveries.

The boat's purchase was supported in part by a grant from the Healthcare Foundation of LaPorte.