West Virginia creates new law enforcement dive team for missing person cases and evidence recovery

HINTON, WV — Gov. Jim Justice announced on Wednesday the formation of a Natural Resources Police dive team within West Virginia’s Division of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Section.

Officials say this team will assist the agency’s law enforcement efforts in boating incidents, cases of missing persons, and evidence recovery.

During the ceremony at Bluestone State Park, the team demonstrated their expertise by diving to the bottom of Bluestone Lake to retrieve a dog bone, which they then presented to Babydog.

“I’m beyond proud to see this new dive team in action, helping keep our state’s beautiful natural resources and people safe,” Gov. Justice said. “These dedicated officers are truly top-notch and ready to dive in and tackle any challenge that comes their way. Thanks to the Natural Resources Police and everyone involved in making this team happen. Your hard work is another shining example of our commitment to protecting our people and preserving our great state’s natural beauty.”

The WVDNR Law Enforcement Section’s dive team consists of 10 officers stationed throughout the state to ensure rapid response time and assist local and state agencies with their investigations.

Members underwent two weeks of intensive open-water training with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division’s Aquatic Investigations and Recovery Team.

In addition to receiving initial certification, dive team members have completed over 100 hours of training on various methods, skills, and equipment.

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