The US Coast Guard Investigative Service (CGIS) arrested the captain of a motor vessel for suspicion of operating the vessel while intoxicated following a boarding at terminal 5 in Seattle on August 20.
The incident began when watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Puget Sound received a report from a Puget Sound Pilot aboard the 333-meter container ship. The pilot reported that the ship’s captain was exhibiting signs of intoxication.
The pilot and first mate operated the vessel during the transit from an anchorage near Everett, Wash., to terminal 5 at the port of Seattle without incident.
Upon mooring at terminal 5, a Coast Guard boarding team and CGIS agents initiated a boarding and port state control examination.
The captain underwent a field sobriety and breathalyzer test, which revealed he was impaired more than six times the legal limit for commercial mariners.
The captain was arrested and transported by CGIS to the King County jail. Charges have been referred to the King County prosecutor for boating under the influence.
The ship was detained by the Coast Guard until a relief captain was identified and confirmed. The vessel has since been cleared to resume operations.
“The Coast Guard is proud to ensure the safety and security of the maritime transportation system,” said Paul Shultz, special agent in charge, CGIS Northwest Field Office. “The Pilot’s immediate intervention mitigated significant risks and ensured the safe passage of the vessel.”
The incident remains under investigation.
