Earlier this week, U.S. Customs and Border Protection's Air and Marine Operations agents responded to a distress call regarding an unresponsive diver in Jupiter, Florida. On May 19, Marine Interdiction Agents from the West Palm Beach Marine unit were alerted by a dive charter boat seeking urgent medical assistance for a diver who had surfaced but was unresponsive.
The agents, aboard a Coastal Interceptor Vessel, reached the dive boat and transferred the female victim into their vessel. They provided oxygen at a high rate while heading swiftly to Jupiter Inlet and coordinated with emergency medical services for her transfer at a local boat ramp.
The diver was handed over to EMS and taken to St. Mary's Trauma Center for further treatment. The rapid response of the agents and the capabilities of their vessel were crucial in this rescue operation.
Southeast Region Executive Director Andres Blanco commended the team: “I am incredibly proud of the professionalism and swift actions from our Marine Interdiction Agents in saving the life of this diver. This event further demonstrates the complexities of our mission while patrolling our nation’s borders."
Air and Marine Operations plays a critical role in national security by addressing threats through aviation and maritime law enforcement expertise across various regions including Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is recognized as America's frontline law enforcement agency with over 65,000 personnel dedicated to safeguarding national security while facilitating lawful travel and trade.
