The event took take place about one mile from shore just north of the pier at Deerfield Beach, Fla. It was 20 days short of one year ago that, while conducting an in depth search of the vessel CBP officers discovered a void space behind one of the unoccupied crew quarters wood paneling.
Upon removing the paneling a metal box was found welded to the bulk head. Inside the metal box were 154 kilo-sized bricks, which field tested positive for cocaine. The cocaine had an estimated street value of $12 million.
A collaboration of federal, state, and local agencies working alongside private stakeholders were able to successfully navigate the complex set of legal rules and regulations required to complete this project. It was a daunting task that covered everything from deciding on a location and properly preparing the vessel to insuring that all environmental and historical concerns were addressed.
The vessel was renamed “The Miracle of Life” and now sits in about 140 feet of water awaiting the many recreational divers who will visit her in the years to come.
“This event was the result of an outstanding interception and seizure by CBP. It also demonstrates what we are capable of accomplishing when we work together with our partners towards a common goal,” said Director of Field Operations Harold Woodward.