United States v. One (1) 43 Foot Sailing Vessel \"Winds Will,\" License O.N. 531317/US , 538 F.2d 694 ( 1976 )


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  • PER CURIAM:

    While engaged in a surface law enforcement patrol in the Yucatan Channel fifteen or so miles west of Cuba on the night of September 8, 1975, members of the crew of United States Coast Guard Cutter DAUNTLESS boarded a 43 foot sailing vessel, WINDS WILL, running without lights, for a safety inspection. 14 U.S.C.A. § 2 and § 89. Smell and plain view observation led to the discovery of 2,030 pounds of marijuana on board. The United States sought and obtained summary judgment of forfeiture of the vessel. We affirm on the basis of the Memorandum Opinion of District Judge Atkins. In so doing, we specifically hold that 14 U.S.C.A. § 89(a) is constitutional. See United States v. Rodgers, 150 U.S. 249, 264, 14 S.Ct. 109, 37 L.Ed. 1071 (1893); Maul v. United States, 274 U.S. 501, 511, 47 S.Ct. 735, 71 L.Ed. 1171 (1927). Cf. United States v. Odom, 526 F.2d 339 (5th Cir. 1976), and United States v. Hillstrom, 533 F.2d 209 (5th Cir. 1976).

    AFFIRMED.

Document Info

Docket Number: No. 76-1166

Citation Numbers: 538 F.2d 694

Judges: Ainsworth, Clark, Ney

Filed Date: 9/13/1976

Precedential Status: Precedential

Modified Date: 11/27/2022