Jonathan Price Named Marine Patrol Officer of the Year

His professionalism, strong work ethic, and commitment to conserving North Carolina's marine resources earned him the top honor.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 3:50pm

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A serene, out-of-focus photograph of a marine patrol boat gliding through the calm waters of the Albemarle Sound, with the sun's rays creating a warm, dreamlike atmosphere, capturing the essence of the Marine Patrol's important work.The Marine Patrol's dedication to protecting North Carolina's coastal resources is exemplified by Officer Jonathan Price's exceptional service, honored with the prestigious Officer of the Year award.Albemarle Today

Jonathan Price, a Marine Patrol Officer who patrols the waters of the Albemarle Sound, has been named the Marine Patrol Officer of the Year. Price is known for his exceptional performance, sound judgment, and thorough investigative practices, which have led to the identification of significant violations involving spotted seatrout, crabs, Spanish mackerel, and sheepshead, as well as numerous gear, license, and boating safety violations.

Why it matters

The Marine Patrol plays a crucial role in protecting North Carolina's valuable marine resources, and the Officer of the Year award recognizes the outstanding contributions of officers like Jonathan Price who are dedicated to this important work. Price's recognition highlights the importance of professional development, public outreach, and strong relationships with the local fishing community in effectively enforcing marine regulations.

The details

Price, who grew up in Jamesville fishing and exploring the Roanoke River, developed a deep appreciation for North Carolina's marine resources and a desire to help protect them. After completing Basic Law Enforcement Training and serving over six years with the Bertie County Sheriff's Office, he joined the Marine Patrol in August 2023. Since then, he has consistently demonstrated exceptional performance, exercising sound judgment and thorough investigative practices. In the past year, Price has identified significant violations and worked to protect the crab fishery, which is the biggest commercial activity in his area.

  • Price joined the Marine Patrol in August 2023.
  • He will receive the Marine Patrol Officer of the Year Award at the North Carolina Wildlife Federation's 61st Annual Governor's Conservation Achievement Awards banquet on May 2, 2026.

The players

Jonathan Price

A Marine Patrol Officer who patrols the waters of the Albemarle Sound and has been named the Marine Patrol Officer of the Year for his professionalism, strong work ethic, and commitment to conserving North Carolina's marine resources.

Chris Lee

The Marine Patrol Colonel, who stated that since joining the Patrol, Officer Price has demonstrated exceptional performance and consistently exercised sound judgment and thorough investigative practices.

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What they’re saying

“Since joining the Patrol, Officer Price has demonstrated exceptional performance. After completing field training, he consistently exercised sound judgment and thorough investigative practices.”

— Chris Lee, Marine Patrol Colonel

“Honestly, I just enjoy working. My plan every day is to go to the boat and start looking. It works!”

— Jonathan Price

What’s next

Price will receive the Marine Patrol Officer of the Year Award at the North Carolina Wildlife Federation's 61st Annual Governor's Conservation Achievement Awards banquet on May 2, 2026.

The takeaway

Jonathan Price's recognition as the Marine Patrol Officer of the Year highlights the critical role that dedicated and skilled officers play in protecting North Carolina's valuable marine resources. His commitment to professional development, public outreach, and strong relationships with the local fishing community have been instrumental in his success, serving as a model for other officers in the Marine Patrol.