Notice: The uscode.house.gov website is currently operating in a temporary format. While the United States Code remains available from its authoritative source, some website features and functionality are temporarily unavailable.
The United States Code Online is current through Public Law 119-120 (October 7, 2026).
Search & Browse Currency and Updating Classification Tables Popular Name Tool Positive Law Codification Editorial Reclassification Downloads
18 U.S.C. 2273: Destruction of vessel by nonownerText contains those laws in effect through Public Law 119-120 (October 7, 2026).
From Title 18-CRIMES AND CRIMINAL PROCEDURECHAPTER 111-SHIPPING
Jump To: Source CreditHistorical and Revision Notes

§2273. Destruction of vessel by nonowner

Whoever, not being an owner, upon the high seas or on any other waters within the admiralty and maritime jurisdiction of the United States, willfully and corruptly casts away or otherwise destroys any vessel of the United States to which he belongs, or willfully attempts the destruction thereof, shall be imprisoned not more than ten years.

( June 25, 1948, ch. 645 , 62 Stat. 804 .)

Historical and Revision Notes

Based on title 18, U.S.C., 1940 ed., § 492 (Mar. 4, 1909, ch. 321, § 301, 35 Stat. 1147).

Words “with intent to destroy the same, sets fire to any such vessel, or otherwise” following “willfully” and preceding “attempts” were omitted as surplusage.