4 BUII arrests during Lake Billy Chinook saturation patrols
Four people were arrested during a multi-county “saturation patrol” over the weekend at Lake Billy Chinook for operating a boat under the influence of alcohol, an official said Monday.
Jefferson County sheriff’s Capt. Marc Heckathorn added, “This office will continue actively enforcing all marine laws, including boating under the influence, in an overall effort to keep everyone safe on the water.”
The sheriff’s captain expressed thanks to marine patrols from Multnomah, Lane, Jackson, Marion and Klamath counties for providing manpower for the operation, as well as the Oregon State Marine Board for providing funds to allow the outside agencies to participate.
From noon Friday through Saturday, the lake near Culver had a much larger law enforcement presence on the water.
Heckathorn said earlier he wants everyone to have a safe and enjoyable time on the water, but cautions boaters to have a designated driver if they will be drinking alcohol.
“Too many times I’ve responded to tragedies on this lake and really want people to understand the dangers of boating while impaired,” the captain said.
These efforts are meant to be very educational to the boating public, letting them know we take BUI (boating under the influence) enforcement seriously.
“Seeing all the additional law enforcement presence on the lake will surely get people talking and perhaps lead people to make better choices,” Heckathorn said.
