The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is proud to announce that Senior Trooper Jacob Manning of ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division has been named the 2025 Southern Region Officer of the Year by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA). This prestigious recognition honors Sr. Trooper Manning’s outstanding service, commitment to boater safety and exemplary performance in boating law enforcement.
“Sr. Trooper Manning exemplifies what it means to serve with purpose and passion,” said ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor. “His unwavering dedication to protecting the public, both through enforcement and education, has not only saved lives on Alabama’s waterways but has also strengthened our Agency and its mission.”
In 2024, Sr. Trooper Manning stood out for his tireless efforts on Alabama’s coastal waters. Among his many achievements, he conducted 507 vessel inspections, issued 268 citations and 505 warnings, and made 24 Boating Under the Influence (BUI) arrests — accounting for over one-third of the state’s total BUIs that year. His work directly contributed to Alabama recording its lowest boating fatality rate in 20 years.
One of the most remarkable moments of his career came on October 16, 2024, when he and Sr. Trooper Kenneth Wade responded to a capsized vessel in Perdido Bay. Braving rough weather conditions, both Troopers rescued four individuals. For this heroic act, Sr. Trooper Manning received ALEA’s Lifesaving Award and was also named the Alabama State Trooper Association’s (ASTA) Trooper of the Year.
“Sr. Trooper Manning’s ability to stay calm under pressure and act decisively in high-stakes situations speaks volumes about his character and training,” said ALEA’s Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director, Colonel Jonathan Archer. “He leads by example, not only in enforcement but in his commitment to education and prevention. His impact is felt far beyond the waters he patrols.”
In addition to his enforcement duties, Sr. Trooper Manning dedicated more than 200 hours to boating safety education, teaching the Boat Alabama course and speaking at schools and public events. He also initiated and continues to coordinate an annual meeting with Baldwin County livery operators, fostering stronger partnerships and addressing challenges with rental boat operations.
“Jacob Manning is the type of Trooper every supervisor hopes for—someone who works hard, mentors others, builds relationships in the community and never stops pushing to improve safety,” said Chief of ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division, Matt Brooks. “His knowledge, leadership and dedication make him a tremendous asset not just to ALEA, but to all who enjoy Alabama’s waterways.”
Sr. Trooper Manning also serves as a NASBLA BUI Instructor, helping train new Troopers assigned to ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division and works alongside federal partners like the U.S. Coast Guard during joint operations to deter BUI and illegal trafficking.
In recognition of his leadership and service, Manning was also selected to represent ALEA at the 60th Presidential Inauguration in January 2025.
The NASBLA award places Manning among a distinguished group of boating law enforcement officers nationwide. He will be honored at the 66th Annual NASBLA Conference in Des Moines, Iowa, this September, where the National Boating Law Enforcement Officer of the Year will also be announced.
The Agency commends Sr. Trooper Manning for his continued service, dedication and for setting a high standard in the field of marine law enforcement. His recognition as the Southern Region Officer of the Year is not only a personal achievement, but a proud moment for the entire state of Alabama.
