Border Patrol arrests boat captain and detains two from Jamaica; search on for seven more

ByMARGIE KACOHA
Daily News Staff Writer
Updated: 12:16 p.m. Friday, March 30, 2012
Posted: 12:10 p.m. Friday, March 30, 2012

A midnight chase by the U.S. Coast Guard this morning ended in the town’s South End with the U.S. Border Patrol arrest of a 36-year-old boat captain from the Bahamas, federal agents said.

U.S. Border Patrol Agent in Charge Frank Miller said the unidentified boat captain will be charged with human smuggling for the purpose of gain. The agency seized the boat, which had come ashore behind the La Renaissance condominium, 3230 S. Ocean Blvd.

He said two individuals from Jamaica were found in the boat and detained, and the search continues for seven more.

U.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer Nick Ameen confirmed the agency was chasing the 24-foot boat and notified U.S. Border Patrol.

Miller said the boat was traveling at a high rate of speed, and it is very routine for the U.S. Coast Guard to be on the watch for vessels that seem suspicious.

The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office assisted, using a boat and helicopter in the search.

Palm Beach police and South Palm Beach police also assisted in the search.

Deputy Chief Dan Szarszewski said officers are continuing to look for illegal immigrants along the beach and the South End.

Border Patrol arrests boat captain and detains two from Jamaica; search on for seven more