SUNRISE TO SUNSET

“Early Morning and Evening Patrols Secure Refuges for Family Enjoyment”

By Sgt. Jubal Marceaux

 

As enforcement agents, these words are very familiar to us.  The words usually refer to the times in which violations are most prevalent.  However, I use these terms in another manner.  Most families use our refuges during this time frame.  If families are to be encouraged to use these areas, good public relations directed toward them, such as the T-shirt program and the warning ticket system must be utilized.  These programs portray the Wildlife Enforcement Agent in a positive light; not just as a “ticket writing” individual.

A second key to keeping families using the refuges is to insure their safety.  Families must feel secure from illegal drugs, weapons and illicit activity if they are going to visit our facilities.  The need for both a strong enforcement presence along with good public relations from sunrise to sunset are crucial.

On June 7, 2001, Sr. Agent Ivan Vaughn, Jr. and I were on routine patrol of Rockefeller Refuge.  We observed a man and a woman engaged in fishing activities at approximately 9:30 a.m. that morning.  The subjects were checked and found to be compliant with the required licenses.  We then obtained permission to check their vehicle for weapons or fish.  We checked an ice chest in the bed of the truck initially, and then proceeded to the interior of the cab.  Upon opening the passenger door, I observed a strong odor, one that I suspected to be marijuana.  The subjects were identified, Mirandized and questioned further.  They both denied being in possession of illegal drugs.  They were asked to empty their pockets, which they did.  We requested permission to search the vehicle further, and they again agreed.  After completing the second search, I located a “rolled joint”, which I suspected to be marijuana, in a compartment under the glove box.  Both subjects denied that it was theirs.  After informing them that if no one acknowledged it was theirs, both of them would be charged and booked into the parish jail, the male subject stated that it was his and he had intended to smoke it on his way home.  He was cited for not abiding by the rules and regulations of W.M.A.’s and for possession of marijuana.

These refuges are full of remote out-of-the-way places that entice those who are interested in engaging in unlawful activity.  As law enforcement professionals, we must keep these areas clear of such activities.  Strong enforcement along with good public relations from sunrise to sunset are an awesome combination!