Hampton Roads Cutter Interdicts 139 Migrants
USCG Atlantic Area Release
Release Date: 5/16/2003
PORTSMOUTH, Va. - A local cutter home ported in Portsmouth, Va., stopped a 40-foot sailing vessel south of the Great Inagua, Bahamas Wednesday with 139 Haitian migrants on board.
The cutter Legare was cruising just off the southern coast of Great Inagua when they spotted what crewmembers called, "an overcrowded and unseaworthy sailing vessel," heading for the Bahamas and ultimately the United States.
After stopping the boat, the crew of the Legare transferred the 139 migrants, including 24 women and six children, to temporary quarters aboard the Legare. The migrants are on their way back to Haiti and are scheduled to be repatriated today.
Some of the migrants were treated for mild dehydration and abrasions. All of the migrants are aboard the Legare receiving food, water and medical attention.
The Legare is a 270-foot medium endurance cutter and is commanded by Cmdr. Michael N. Parks. Additional information about the Legare can be found at www.uscg.mil/LANTAREA/cutters/legare/index.htm.
Since January 1, the Coast Guard has interdicted 667 Haitian migrants, 510 Cuban migrants and 650 Dominican Republican migrants.
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