GLYNCO Ga. -- The Marine Law Enforcement Training Program (MLETP), a pivotal training course administered by the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC), is currently undergoing a comprehensive Curriculum Review Conference (CRC), July 17. This conference aims to modernize the MLETP by removing simulators and increasing practical, underway training, thereby enhancing the program’s efficiency, and reducing both student and instructor fatigue.
“We recognized the need for change. The goal is to streamline the curriculum, giving more hands-on experience and less reliance on simulators,” said FLETC Driver and Marine Division Jeffrey McDonald, Marine Branch Chief.
The CRC’s primary objective is to refine the course sequence to enhance the flow of training sessions while minimizing exhaustion. By shifting to more underway training, participants will gain valuable, real-world experience operating high-speed law enforcement vessels in diverse and challenging environments. This hands-on approach is essential for trainees, many of whom will support border security operations.
The MLETP, which focuses on key areas such as navigation, seamanship, safety, marine electronics, and law enforcement boarding procedures, has been pivotal in training law enforcement officers globally. The course is exclusively available to sworn law enforcement officers and individuals directly supporting law enforcement agencies.
Originally a U.S. Customs Service initiative to support marine operators, the MLETP was transferred to FLETC around 1984. Since then, it has expanded, offering its rigorous training to countries worldwide through agreements with the U.S. State Department. Notable international participants include officers and agents from Yemen, UAE, Budapest, Ukraine, Turkey, Greece, Kenya, and Egypt. Domestically, the program has trained numerous federal, state, and local agencies.
Reflecting on the program's impact, a Florida Fish and Wildlife Officer commented, “I’ve been operating a law enforcement vessel for 10 years and I didn’t realize how much I don’t know.” Similarly, McDonald noted, “I wish I would have attended a course like MLETP when I started my career as a marine law enforcement officer. You won’t find a more comprehensive marine operations course outside of the military.”
The MLETP’s evolution reflects a commitment to providing top-tier, practical training to law enforcement officers worldwide, ensuring they are prepared to meet the multifaceted challenges of marine law enforcement. As the curriculum is revamped, the program continues to uphold its mission of skillfully preparing officers to operate effectively both day and night, in all regions of the world.
Federal organization personnel should contact their agency training officer to register for training, contact FLETC Admissions with any additional questions, or call (912) 267-3447. State, local, and tribal officers requesting training should register online. If organizational support is required or you have additional needs, please contact FLETC Admissions. International (non-US) personnel should email FLETC-intlrqst@fletc.dhs.gov.
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Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers
Office of Public Affairs
Contact: 912-267-2447