Safety Beach jet skier facing series of charges

A jet ski rider who allegedly rode dangerously close to a boat at Safety Beach this week will be charged by Water Police.

Two police boats from Water Police’s strike team were deployed after receiving reports a jet skier was travelling at speed within metres of a stationary boat about 3.40pm on Monday 16 January.

It’s alleged the rider deliberately sprayed the occupants with water before speeding off.

With assistance from Dromana uniform officers, the jet skier was identified on the beach and subsequently interviewed by police.

The 16-year-old boy who only recently obtained his marine licence, will be charged with dangerous operation, exceed 5 knots within 50 metres of another vessel and fail to maintain safety equipment.

He will face a magistrates’ court at a later date.

The charge of dangerous operation comes with a mandatory six month loss of licence and can be accompanied with thousands of dollars in fines.

Quotes attributable to Acting Sergeant Michael Greenwood, Water Police Squad:

“We won’t tolerate dangerous behaviour on jet skis.

“The bay is a shared space – be mindful of others when using it.

“If you engage in this type of behaviour, remember our strike teams are not far away.

“You will be caught up with.”

/Public Release. View in full here.