Maritime Law Enforcement Manual Uscg | HD 2027 |

The MLEM establishes the policies and standards for the planning, execution, and oversight of maritime law enforcement. It is designed to ensure that every action taken by a Coast Guard boarding team—from a routine safety inspection to a high-risk counter-narcotics interdiction—is consistent, legal, and respects the constitutional rights of the individuals involved.

The MLEM clarifies that Coast Guard authority is grounded in federal law, specifically 14 U.S.C. § 522 maritime law enforcement manual uscg

As long as vessels sail within U.S. jurisdiction, the MLEM will stand as the definitive rulebook for justice on the water. The MLEM establishes the policies and standards for

The Use of Force chapter (aligned with USCG policy) escalates from presence, verbal commands, compliance holds, OC spray, baton, taser, to deadly force. Deadly force is authorized only to protect life or prevent terrorism — never for property crimes like escaping drug runners without imminent threat. § 522 As long as vessels sail within U