Destruction or misuse of vessel by person in charge
Official text prohibited actmental stateif conditionpenaltylegal term
Whoever, being the owner, master or person in charge or command of any private vessel, foreign or domestic, or a member of the crew or other person, within the territorial waters of the United States, causes or permits the destruction or injury of such vessel or knowingly permits said vessel to be used as a place of resort for any person conspiring with another or preparing to commit any offense against the United States, or any offense in violation of the treaties of the United States or of the obligations of the United States under the law of nations, or to defraud the United States; or knowingly permits such vessels to be used in violation of the rights and obligations of the United States under the law of nations, shall be or imprisoned not more than ten years, or both.
In case such vessels are so used, with the knowledge of the owner or master or other person in charge or command thereof, the vessel, together with her tackle, apparel, furniture, and equipment, shall be subject to seizure and forfeiture to the United States in the same manner as merchandise is for violation of the customs revenue laws.
History: (June 25, 1948, ch. 645, 62 Stat. 804 (PDF, 39 MB); Pub. L. 103–322, title XXXIII, §330016(1)(L), Sept. 13, 1994, 108 Stat. 2147 (PDF, 52 MB).)
Simplified explanation
It is a federal crime for an owner, captain, crew member, or other person to deliberately cause or allow the destruction or damage of a private ship in U.S. waters. It is also a crime to knowingly let the ship be used by people planning crimes against the United States, to cheat the United States, or in violation of U.S. treaty or international law duties.