Halting operation

A U.S. Coast Guard Station Cortez law enforcement crew June 19 terminated an illegal charter operating on the Intracoastal Waterway near Anna Maria Island. The 24-foot pontoon was carrying nine passengers without the required Coast Guard-issued Merchant Mariner credential and certificate of inspection, according to a news release. The vessel also lacked sufficient life jackets. The charter was deemed illegal and escorted to the Coquina North Boat Ramp in Bradenton Beach. Illegal charters can result in civil penalties exceeding $60,000. Islander Courtesy Photo