Two businesses have partnered with the sheriff’s office to loan the agency Jet Skis at no cost which will help deputies patrol and respond to emergencies on Lake County waterways.
The Lake County Sheriff’s Office said the new public-private partnership with Nielsen Enterprises and Kawasaki aims to enhance waterway safety through the addition of two Jet Skis, which are now deployed with the Sheriff’s Marine Unit.
The partnership is made possible through Kawasaki’s national loan program in support of law enforcement and first responders and through the assistance of Nielsen Enterprises.
The Lake County Sheriff’s Office received two Jet Skis at no cost for use during the 2025 boating season.
The high-performance personal watercraft will be launched on Tuesday on Lake County waterways to support emergency response, water rescues and proactive safety patrols.
“This program is a tremendous step forward for our Marine Unit,” Lake County Sheriff John D. Idleburg said.
“By working with Nielsen Enterprises and Kawasaki, we’ve added lifesaving tools to our fleet, at virtually no cost to taxpayers. Their support directly contributes to the safety of everyone who enjoys Lake County’s lakes,” Idleburg said.
Lake County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Chief Christopher Covelli said the Jet Skis will allow deputies to respond more quickly and access areas that traditional patrol boats cannot.
Their speed and agility make them ideal for both emergency calls and high-visibility enforcement during peak boating times.
Covelli said they will be launched on the Chain O’Lakes, inland lakes and waterways and on Lake Michigan to patrol the lakeshore.
“We’re proud to partner with Kawasaki to support the Lake County Marine Unit by providing two personal watercrafts for use this season,” said Mike Missak, from Nielsen Enterprises.
“Our local waterways are an important part of the community, and we hope this partnership enhances both patrol and rescue efforts to help keep everyone safe this season,” Missak said.
The Sheriff’s Marine Unit is now fully operational with the Jet Skis and trained personnel, helping ensure a safer and more responsive presence on the water this summer, Covelli said.
The sheriff’s office said it expects the partnership between the two businesses to continue next year as well.