Section 51.11. General

(a) The primary responsibility of a waterways conservation officer is the enforcement of the code and this part. Section 901(a)(12) of the code (relating to powers and duties of waterways patrolmen and deputies) authorizes waterways conservation officers, when acting within the scope of their employment, to pursue, apprehend or arrest a person suspected of violating 18 Pa.C.S. (relating to the Crimes Code) or another offense classified as a misdemeanor or felony.

(b) This subchapter sets forth the Commission’s policies and procedures on administration of police powers by waterways conservation officers. These policies and procedures are intended to serve as internal operating guidelines for waterways conservation officers. These policies and procedures will not be construed to detract from the authority granted by section 901(a)(12) of the code or to invalidate or otherwise affect the validity of an arrest, prosecution or other law enforcement actions undertaken by a waterways conservation officer. These policies and procedures confer no rights on persons charged with offenses by waterways conservation officers.

The provisions of this § 51.11 amended September 6, 1991, effective September 7, 1991, 21 Pa.B. 3990. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (153730).