Boynton Beach, FL – On August 31, a routine marine patrol by the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO) led to the interception of a suspicious vessel near the Boynton Inlet, resulting in the seizure of more than 273 pounds of cocaine and 98 bottles of codeine cough syrup and the arrest of the boat’s sole occupant.
The stop, which began when deputies observed the boat make an abrupt course change to avoid contact, culminated in a search at the Lantana Boat Ramp and a multi-agency response. Authorities say the case was turned over to Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and remains active.
How the Vessel Was Stopped
Marine deputies from the PBSO Marine Enforcement Unit were on routine patrol when they noticed a vessel heading west toward the inlet. The boat unexpectedly altered course to the north, an action deputies interpreted as an attempt to avoid contact with law enforcement. Deputies stopped the vessel and escorted it to the Lantana Boat Ramp for further investigation.
Seizure Details and Evidence
During a coordinated search conducted by PBSO and officers from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), investigators discovered multiple large duffel bags filled with sealed packages. The contraband was identified as:
- Over 273 pounds of cocaine
- 98 bottles of cough syrup containing codeine
Law enforcement identified the vessel’s only occupant as a Bahamian national and non-U.S. citizen, who was taken into custody at the scene. The case has been referred to HSI for further action, and the investigation remains ongoing. For additional reporting and details on the incident, see the original report.
Interagency Response and Ongoing Investigation
Authorities said the PBSO immediately notified federal and state partners, including FWC, Air and Marine Operations (AMO), HSI, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Officials highlighted the joint effort as critical to detecting and interrupting maritime trafficking operations.
“PBSO emphasized the importance of interagency cooperation in monitoring Florida’s waterways and preventing the trafficking of illegal substances.“
Why This Matters for Florida Waterways
The seizure underscores persistent efforts by law enforcement to interdict illegal drug shipments moving via coastal routes. Smugglers often use small vessels to transport narcotics and controlled substances, taking advantage of busy inlets and coastal geography.
- Key agencies involved: PBSO, FWC, AMO, HSI, CBP
- Date: August 31
- Location: Near Boynton Inlet; investigation processing at Lantana Boat Ramp
- Seizure: > 273 lbs of cocaine; 98 bottles of codeine cough syrup
- Suspect: One Bahamian national; arrested and referred to HSI
What Happens Next?
Authorities will continue forensic processing of the seized materials and pursue any leads to determine smuggling routes, intended distribution networks, and potential co-conspirators. Because the case is now with HSI, federal prosecution and immigration consequences are likely to follow…