News | Port St. Lucie

Port St. Lucie Police Department Forms Dive Team, Unveils Equipment

September 5, 2025
4:32 pm

The Port St. Lucie Police Department has officially formed a dive team, expanding its specialized response capabilities and enhancing public safety throughout the city. The new unit recently demonstrated its equipment and outlined its mission to support law enforcement operations in and around Port St. Lucie. In addition to the dive team, the department has recently enhanced its K9 unit with the addition of two bloodhound dogs, further strengthening their investigative resources.

Port St. Lucie Police Department Dive Team: Purpose and Mission

The main goal of the Port St. Lucie Police Department dive team is to provide specialized underwater search and recovery services. This team is trained to assist with evidence recovery, missing person searches, and water-related investigations. Their expertise is especially valuable when dealing with complex cases, such as those involving traveling criminal activity investigations that may require coordinated efforts across multiple jurisdictions.

With the formation of this unit, the department aims to respond more quickly and effectively to incidents in lakes, canals, and other bodies of water across St. Lucie County.

Specialized Equipment for Underwater Operations

The dive team uses advanced equipment designed for a variety of water conditions. During a recent demonstration, officers displayed their new gear and explained its role in supporting public safety efforts.

Dive suits for protection and mobility in different water temperatures
Full-face masks with communication systems
Underwater lights for visibility in low-light environments
Evidence collection bags and markers
Rescue boards and flotation devices

This equipment allows the team to search for evidence, recover property, and assist in rescue operations safely and efficiently.

Training and Certification for Dive Team Members

Members of the Port St. Lucie Police Department dive team undergo specialized training to meet national standards for law enforcement divers. This includes certification in underwater search techniques, evidence handling, and emergency response procedures, often referencing guidelines set by organizations like the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators.

Ongoing training ensures that officers remain prepared for a range of scenarios, from vehicle recoveries to supporting investigations in challenging water conditions. The department’s commitment to preparedness also extends to handling digital threats, as seen when officers addressed an online threat to a local high school with swift and effective action. For background checks and law enforcement records, the team may coordinate with agencies such as the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.

Supporting Public Safety in Port St. Lucie and St. Lucie County

The creation of the dive team strengthens the department’s ability to serve the community. Waterways are a significant part of Port St. Lucie and the surrounding area, making specialized response teams essential for public safety.

The dive team works closely with other local agencies, including fire rescue and neighboring law enforcement, to coordinate responses and share resources when needed. The department also ensures its K9 unit meets high standards, often referencing best practices from the United States Police Canine Association.

Community Engagement and Demonstrations

To inform the public about its new capabilities, the Port St. Lucie Police Department has hosted equipment demonstrations. These events allow residents to see the dive team’s tools up close and learn about their role in protecting the community.

Public outreach also helps build trust and awareness of the resources available in emergencies involving water.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Port St. Lucie Police Department Dive Team

What is the Port St. Lucie Police Department dive team?

The dive team is a group of specially trained officers who perform underwater search, rescue, and evidence recovery operations in Port St. Lucie and nearby areas.

How does the dive team support public safety in PSL?

The team responds to emergencies in lakes, canals, and other waterways, helping locate missing persons, recover evidence, and assist in water rescues.

Are dive team members specially certified?

Yes, all members complete national certification programs for law enforcement divers and receive ongoing training to stay prepared for different situations.

Can the dive team assist other agencies in St. Lucie County?

Yes, the dive team can work with other law enforcement and emergency services throughout St. Lucie County when specialized underwater support is needed.