The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) is making waves with the introduction of a powerful new tool in its public safety arsenal: a state-of-the-art patrol vessel named Marine One.
Sheriff Austin Garrett officially unveiled the 28-foot Munson Boats catamaran during a recent ceremony, celebrating what he described as a major investment in the agency’s marine-based operations and overall public safety mission.
“For 20 years, our former Marine One has served Hamilton County well, helping protect our waterways and ensure public safety,” Garrett says. “Our new Marine One is a major upgrade to our operational capabilities and reaffirms my commitment as your sheriff to professionalism, preparedness and innovation.”
The new vessel replaces an aging patrol boat that had served the department for two decades but was becoming increasingly expensive to maintain. The new Marine One’s total price tag was $350,000 – funded in part by a $262,500 Federal Port Security Grant secured with the help of U.S. Representative Chuck Fleischmann. Hamilton County contributed a 25% match of $87,500 to complete the purchase.
The investment in marine readiness doesn’t stop at the water’s edge. To ensure efficient land transport of the new vessel, the HCSO also purchased a 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 pickup truck for $60,000 using capital outlay funds.
With over 542 square miles of jurisdiction and more than 33 miles of waterways to patrol, the HCSO’s Marine Patrol Unit plays a critical role in regional public safety. In partnership with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA), the unit is responsible for a wide range of waterborne emergencies and law enforcement duties – including drowning investigations, accident response and enforcement of boating laws.
Designed for versatility, the new Marine One is equipped to handle a wide range of incidents, including search and rescue operations, deployments by the sheriff’s Underwater Recovery Team and responses to chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear events.
Outfitted with modern technology, the vessel features twin Yamaha 250-horsepower outboard engines, a cabin enclosure for weather protection, side and down-scan sonar, and advanced thermal and night vision camera capabilities.
Perhaps its most innovative feature is the integrated bow door, a ramp-style entry that lowers to allow for direct front loading and unloading. This unique design enables rapid deployment of dive gear, personnel, equipment and even small vehicles – making it ideal for remote rescues, tactical operations or accessing rugged shoreline areas.
Each year, the Marine Patrol Unit also provides vital public safety support for major community events like the Head of the Hooch and IRONMAN competitions. These large gatherings place increased demands on law enforcement presence along the county’s busy waterways.
The HCSO’s Marine Patrol deputies are often the first responders to emergency situations on the water. From medical incidents and boat accidents to assisting stranded vessels, they operate in time-sensitive and often hazardous conditions. Their responsibilities also include routine patrols, promoting safe boating practices, and maintaining close coordination with partner agencies including TWRA and the Tennessee Valley Authority’s law enforcement division.
“The safety of our waterways depends on proactive and well-equipped law enforcement,” Garrett says. “This new vessel is more than a new piece of equipment – it represents our ongoing commitment to keep residents and visitors safe when they’re on the water.”
Marine One joins an upgraded fleet that also includes Marine Two – a 21-foot Boston Whaler Justice with a 250-horsepower Yamaha motor – and two RescueOne Connector support boats powered by 50-horsepower Mercury engines.
“Thanks to the support of Congressman Fleischmann, our County Commission and the Mayor’s Office, we now have a patrol vessel that not only meets but exceeds modern standards,” Garrett adds. “It’s an investment in readiness, resilience and responsibility.”