What We Do

Homeland Security

The purpose for the Homeland Security Unit within the Maryland Natural Resources Police is to coordinate and assist in the evaluation of the Agencys capabilities, weaknesses in resources, personnel, training and current policies in relationship to identified Homeland Security targets and issues. NRP is the lead law enforcement agency for maritime incidents on Maryland waterways that do not fall under the jurisdiction of the Federal Bureau of Investigation or the United States Coast Guard. The Homeland Security Unit has undertaken a variety of activities that have helped to strengthen Marylands maritime homeland security.

Examples of these activities include:

• Maryland Water Watch Program This program promotes use of the Chesapeake, and allows for citizens to call in suspicious activity.
• Port of Baltimore Harbor Coordination and Safety Committee MNRP has partnered with this organization to work together in the Port area for the coordination of safety related issues.
• Member Salisbury Mutual Aid Group (SMAG) this group consist of emergency responders from industry, state, county, and local governments that provides mutual aid within Wicomico County and neighboring jurisdictions during emergencies.
• Member Potomac River Rescue Association (PRRA).
• Member of Anti-Terrorism Advisory Council (ATAC).
• Member State Evacuation Task Force.
• Member Marylands Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) Steering Committee.
• Maryland Critical Infrastructure Steering Committee.
• Maritime Tactical Operations Group (MTOG).

1. Suspicious attempts to buy or charter vessels using large cash payments.
2. Vessels operating at night without running lights.
3. Loading or unloading activity dockside at unusual hours.
4. Immediate modifications or repairs to vessels demanded without regard to cost.
5. Communications between a boat and shore by unusual means (lights, flags, etc.).
6. Vessels riding excessively low in the water.
7. Improper of false registration numbers.
8. Suspicious activity around large commercial vessels (freighters, tankers, etc.) including off-loading of persons and packages on to small boats.
9. Unusual diving activity around vessels, wharfs, bridges, dams, etc.
10. Abandoned or unattended vessels or vehicles in or near unusual locations or near key facilities or public areas.
11. Suspicious filming activity near public or key facilities.
12. The throwing or recovering of items into/onto the waterways or shoreline.