The Coast Guard Investigative Service (CGIS) apprehended the captain of a container ship for allegedly operating the vessel while intoxicated. The situation arose after watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Puget Sound received a concerning report from a Puget Sound Pilot aboard the MSC Jubilee IX, a 333-meter container ship. The investigation into the incident is ongoing.
The pilot observed signs of intoxication in the ship’s captain during the vessel’s transit from an anchorage near Everett, Washington, to Terminal 5 at the Port of Seattle. To ensure safe navigation, the pilot and first mate took control of the ship, successfully guiding it without incident.
Upon the MSC Jubilee IX’s arrival at Terminal 5, a Coast Guard boarding team, along with CGIS agents, conducted an examination of the captain. He underwent both a field sobriety test and a breathalyzer test, which indicated that his blood alcohol concentration was over six times the legal limit for commercial mariners.
The captain was subsequently arrested and transported to the King County Jail. Charges for boating under the influence have been referred to the King County Prosecutor’s Office. The ship remained detained until a relief captain was found and verified, allowing it to resume operations afterward.
Paul Shultz, Special Agent in Charge of the CGIS Northwest Field Office, remarked, “The Coast Guard is committed to ensuring the safety and security of the maritime transportation system. The Pilot’s swift intervention significantly reduced risks and secured the safe passage of the vessel.”
