Deep secrets

Dive Team Special operations — Meet the team, from left, Officer Joseph Bologna, Officer Corey Mannino, Officer Patrick Simpson, Officer Peter Chunn, Detective Joshua Kirkus, Officer Russell Jackson, Officer Michael Scaringe, Officer James Boyd, Officer Fatima Barrera. [Not shown: Sergeant John Fazio.] PSLPD PHOTOS

Police dive team braves dangerous waters

BY ELLEN GILLETTE

Chief Niemczyk’s request for a dedicated dive team was answered quickly.

With its abundance of fresh and saltwater diving opportunities, Florida consistently ranks the second highest state for scuba certifications. But Port St. Lucie Police Department’s new dedicated dive team takes things to a whole different level: Instead of pristine water and beauty, officers signed on for the worst conditions possible.

Earlier this year, Chief Leo Niemczyk shared his desire for the department to become self-sufficient in dive operations. The Special Operations Division was tasked with creating a team and getting it operational as quickly as possible.

Sergeant John Fazio leads and dives with the inaugural team. “We worked with grant writers and secured funding of $25,000 for the majority of the purchases,” he said. “The agency funded additional gear to outfit the divers.”