The U.S. Coast Guard traces its origins to 1790. On August 4, 1790, Congress authorized the President to build and equip ten boats to collect revenue, and provide for a complement of officers and men to operate them. This early service known as the Revenue Marine (later the Revenue Cutter Service) represented the nation's attempt to counter a serious smuggling problem that had tremendous financial impact on the nation's ability to enforce its laws at sea. The Coast Guard has continued this tradition throughout its 200-year history and continues to enforce all U.S. maritime law, including laws against smuggling illegal drugs and migrants and laws protecting our living marine resources. The maritime law enforcement program accounts for approximately one third of the Coast Guard's operating budget.

The specific statutory authority for the Coast Guard Law Enforcement mission is given in 14 USC 2, "The Coast Guard shall enforce or assist in the enforcement of all applicable laws on, under and over the high seas and waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States." In addition, 14 USC 89 provides the authority for U.S. Coast Guard active duty commissioned, warrant and petty officers to enforce applicable U.S. law. It authorizes Coast Guard personnel to enforce federal law on waters subject to U.S. jurisdiction and in international waters, as well as on all vessels subject to U.S. jurisdiction (including U.S., foreign and stateless vessels).

Office of Law Enforcement

Mailing Address:

Commandant (G-OPL)
U.S. Coast Guard
2100 2nd St. SW
Washington, DC 20593-0001