Baltimore Co. police to use federal funds for port security

The Baltimore County Police Department will use $860,795 in federal money to purchase tactical response watercraft and dive-and-search equipment to enhance security at the port of Baltimore. The funds will pay for a 25-foot patrol boat with trailer and accessories, a similarly equipped 21-foot boat and two inflatable boats outfitted with diving gear and devices that can disarm explosive devices. The boats and equipment will allow the department to better fulfill its role in the defense of the port area, officials said. The Baltimore County Council is expected to approve the federal grant at its meeting Tuesday. - Mary Gail Hare