Taxpayers Cover Coast Guard Private-Party Patrols

[unhappycamper]

http://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/taxpayers-cover-coast-guard-private-party-patrols-25367634



Taxpayers Cover Coast Guard Private-Party Patrols
NEW HAVEN, Conn. — Sep 9, 2014, 1:30 AM ET
By JOHN CHRISTOFFERSEN Associated Press

At private parties on the waters of Long Island Sound, lined by some of the country's most exclusive real estate, hosts setting off elaborate fireworks displays enjoy a little-known benefit. Security is provided, at no expense, by the U.S. Coast Guard.

For some regattas, yacht club parties and even weddings, the maritime agency assigns boats and crews to enforce "safety zones" on the heavily trafficked waterway, just as it does for public fireworks displays such as the Macy's Fourth of July celebration in New York City.

Unlike police agencies that provide security support for private events on land, the Coast Guard does not seek reimbursement, leaving the bill to taxpayers. The deployment of resources varies for each event, but in the case of a two-hour event for a July wedding on the sound, the Coast Guard sent two 25-foot boats that are worth $1,500 an hour — for a total of $6,000.

The patrols can be ordered at the discretion of Coast Guard officials across the United States, but no sectors are busier than those for New York and Long Island Sound, which are responsible for waterways that are congested with yachts and powerboats during the summer. Documents obtained through Freedom of Information requests and interviews by The Associated Press show Coast Guard crews are involved in security for dozens of privately sponsored events in those sectors.

[PeoViejo]

1. Poor people events get free security too.

Free Tear Gas, Rubber Bullets and Pepper Spray as well.