Water bailiff

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A water bailiff is a law enforcement officer responsible for the policing of bodies of water, such as a river, lake or coast. The position has existed in many jurisdictions throughout history.

Contents

[edit] Scotland

In Scotland, under the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries Acts of 2003 passed by the Scottish Parliament, water bailiffs are appointed by District Salmon Fishery Boards or, alternatively, by the Scottish Government, and are responsible for enforcing laws relating to salmon and trout. Although not police officers, they have certain statutory powers of "entry, search, seizure and arrest" under the Act. They can stop and search boats and vehicles within their jurisdiction if they believe them to contain illegally-caught trout or salmon, and can carry out searches and seizures with a warrant from a sheriff or justice of the peace. They also have power of arrest for violations of the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries Acts of 2003 or for any salmon-related offences under earlier acts of 1967 and 1984.[1]

[edit] England and Wales

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In England and Wales water bailiffs have the same functions as their counterparts in Scotland. They are appointed by the Environment Agency.

[edit] Isle of Man

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The Water Bailiff was a historical officer in the Isle of Man responsible for enforcing fishing law.

[edit] See also

[edit] References

  1. ^ Powers of Water Bailiffs, Scottish Government website

[edit] External links