Vinalhaven - The Maine Marine Patrol has charged Jared Larsen, 32, of Waldoboro with operating a watercraft under the influence.
Marine Patrol received a report at approximately 7:00 a.m. this morning of a boat that had run aground on Seal Ledge on the southwest side of Vinalhaven in Penobscot Bay.
Marine Patrol Officers arrived on scene at approximately 8:00 a.m. to find the vessel, the Holly and Abby owned by lobster dealer Fox Island Lobster Company, laying on its side and taking on water.
Marine Patrol Officers were able to locate Larsen at the Rockland Fish Pier. He'd been transported there by Fox Island Lobster and good Samaritans who came out to assist the vessel and Jared was transported by them to Rockland.
Marine Patrol Officers were able to locate Larsen at the Rockland Fish Pier and transported him to Knox County Jail where he was issued a summons for operating a watercraft under the influence of alcohol or drugs. and transported him to Knox County Jail where he was issued a summons for operating a watercraft under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Operating a watercraft under the influence of drugs or alcohol in Maine is a class D crime which carries a maximum penalty of up to 364 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000.
Also responding were the Vinalhaven Fire Department and the U.S. Coast Guard, which will conduct an investigation into the accident.
There were a reported 80-100 gallons of diesel fuel on board the vessel and efforts are underway to prevent it from leaking and to salvage the vessel.