New Jersey Owner Sentenced in Fishing Boat Sinking Scheme

A southern New Jersey fishing boat owner has been sentenced to nearly four years in prison for his role in a botched scheme to sink the boat for insurance money.

Scott Tran of Cherry Hill was also ordered Wednesday to pay $280,000 in restitution.

The 40-year-old Tran was among four people who pleaded guilty to charges in the unsuccessful sinking of the Alexander II about 80 miles southeast of Cape May in 2009. Tran pleaded guilty to conspiracy to destroy a vessel on the high seas.

Federal prosecutors say Tran and another man paid a captain and crew to sink the boat so Tran could collect $400,000 in insurance. The Coast Guard rescued the boat and crew.

Tran’s claim was denied, and he sued in court seeking damages.