BLUE LIGHTNING STRIKE FORCE

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BLUE LIGHTNING STRIKE FORCE
SGT. GLENROY GITTENS INITIATIVE SUPERVISOR OFC.
MIGUEL CHARRIEZ SENIOR OFFICER ST.CROIX DISTRICT
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HISTORY

• The Marine Unit (BLSF) was created in August 3,
  1988 in both Districts of St. Croix, St.
  Thomas/St. John.
• The Initial function at the time was to assist
  all local and federal agencies in impacting the
  illegal trafficking of drugs or contraband in and
  around the USVI.
• The Marine Unit became a full fledged HIDTA
  Initiative in 1998.
• Concentrating its efforts on interdiction on the
  high seas towards the interception of vessels
  bringing drugs into the USVI.

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MISSION
The implementation of interdiction concentrates
efforts on the surrounding waters of the US
Virgin Islands, particularly in the vicinity of
the island of St. Croix. Further, efforts are put
forth to close all ports to the entry of
contraband, the inflow of illegal drugs from
foreign countries, and the prevention of the
Virgin Islands from being utilized as a drugs
transshipment point to narco-terrorist entering
Continental United States by way of the USVI.
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HIDTA / BLSF ROLE
I. Prevent the territory from being used by
Drug Traffickers as a transshipment area. II.
Denying Drug Traffickers open access to USVI
Waters. III. Prevent the illegal entry of foreign
nationals into the territory and Continental
U.S. VI. Provide Security for our ports as part
of Homeland Security Initiatives.
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Homeland Security Initiatives

• Providing Security for all Ports and Harbors
• Provide Escort for Cruise Liners entering and
  exiting Territorial Water.
• Provide Patrol Initiatives of Krause Lagoon and
  HOVENSA Refinery.
• Provide assistance to any Federal or Local
  Agencies with Homeland Security Initiatives.

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BLSF Marine Unit Office
2003 BUILDING OF THE NEW MARINE FACILITY
New Marine Office
New Maintenance Building