b'SAFETYMATTERSwhether out of ignorance or on purpose, and PVA has seen a steady stream of Coast Guard press releases from coast to coast where illegal charters have been terminated. We have even seen repeat offenders put in handcuffs by CGIS agents. For some, the lure seems to outweigh the risk. While certificated small passenger vessels must follow social distancing, face covering, and enhanced cleaningKeeping the navigational waterways and ports safeisnt only up to regimes, if they are operating at all,law enforcement the Coast Guard Investigative Service (CGIS)relies illegal charter operators do not concernon you to provide tips on suspected crime and threats.themselves with any of that because they are already operating illegally.Thats why CGIS has launched CGIS Tips, a web-basedand mobile means to The Coast Guard cannot be every- submit tips anonymouslyto CGIScriminal investigators.where on the waterfront, so it is up to those who know the port best toWhat kinds of tips should I report: Any felony level violationsto include: sexual identify and report suspicious and po- assaultand/or abuse, rape, battery, homicide, aggravated assault, larceny, drug tentially illegal activity. We encouragetrafficking, environmental crimes, terrorism, search and rescue hoaxes, members to share the CGIS App withprocurement fraud, suspicious activity, etc.their employees and develop policiesDownload the CGIS Tips app from your mobile providers marketplace.and procedures for their employees to illegal and suspicious activity.The CGIS TIPS App is available forboth Apple and Android smart devices through the App store. You can alsoYou can also use this QR code to quickly access CGIS Tips using your smart device.scan the QR Code below to quicklyFor more information about CGIS, visit our website at:access CGIS TIPS on a smart device. n https://www.uscg.mil/cgisPVA WELCOMES NEW MEMBER New Orleans Regional Transit Authority New Orleans, LA Mr. Jose Ruiz Associate Member www.norta.comOCTOBER 2020FOGHORN 39'