Liberian Freighter Held in Minnesota Over Alleged Environmental Violations

MV Cornelia. Photo: MarineTraffic.com/jh.dijkema

A Liberian-flagged freighter is being held in Duluth, Minnesota amid an ongoing investigation into alleged violations of U.S. environmental law.

The U.S. Coast Guard says it is investigating the crew, equipment and records of the 175-meter MV Cornelia for allegations involving violations related to the discharge of oily water.

The Coast Guard did not provide specifics on the case, but it said that based upon current information in the investigation, it does not appear that the discharge occurred within the port of Duluth – Superior.

Although the Cornelia and crew are typically equipped to remain at sea for several months, Coast Guard personnel continue to check in with the master of the Cornelia regularly and confirm that the crew has adequate food, water and other necessities.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota accepted the case for criminal investigation November 9th.

The Coast Guard and the vessel’s owner and operator are negotiating a security agreement that would permit the vessel to depart the port while simultaneously protecting the integrity of the investigation and the interests of the vessel’s crew members, the Coast guard said.

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