Coast Guard Sector Miami law enforcement officers, along with federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, terminated 6 illegal charter voyages, over the weekend, across Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade counties.
The 88-foot motor yacht, The Round, was reportedly operating as an illegal charter with numerous violations and 18 passengers for hire on the vessel. During the investigation, it was found the vessel’s owner was previously issued a Captain of the Port Order three separate times.
Violating a COTP Order is enforceable under 46 U.S.C. 70036. The Coast Guard may issue a civil penalty for up to $117,608 for each violation and may be assessed each day the vessel is in violation. Willful and knowing violations can be punished as a Class D felony, which is punishable up to six years in prison or fines up to $250,000 for an induvial or $500,000 for an organization…