Officers Conduct Enforcement Operation on James Lake Sandbar
Posted
Staff Report-
NORTH WEBSTER – Indiana Conservation Officers, acting on complaints from boaters on James Lake, commonly referred to as Little Tippy Lake, held a targeted enforcement operation on the sandbar. According to a press release from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, officers were searching for impaired or intoxicated boat operators and minor age persons consuming alcoholic beverages. Indiana Conservation Officers were assisted by officers from the State Excise Police. As a result of the day-long operation Saturday, 16 minors were issued summons to appear for minor consumption and possession of alcoholic beverages. Additionally, Nicholas Ponsler, 27, of South Bend, was jailed on a charge of operating a watercraft with a BAC over 0.08 percent. “Indiana Conservation Officers are dedicated to keeping Hoosier waterways safe for all to enjoy. It is hoped by working with the boating public that enforcement efforts such as this will prevent alcohol related incidents from occurring on our states’ scenic waterways,” the release states. If you suspect someone of impaired or intoxicated boat operation, call the Indiana Conservation Officers dispatch center at 1-812-837-9536. In an emergency, dial 911 first and an Indiana Conservation Officer will be dispatched along with other emergency personnel.
