Police: 2 men with pirate flag try to rob boat in Gloucester

GLOUCESTER, Mass. -- Two men face charges for boarding a docked sail boat in Gloucester Harbor, attempting to rob its owner. The victim says the two men got away in a boat flying the skull and crossbones.

Forget the high seas! This pirate adventure took place right in Gloucester Harbor, landing two men in big trouble.

“A sailing vessel on the harbor called and reported they had two men get on board their boat, threaten to use a weapon to rob them,” said Petty Officer Tom Moen, U.S. Coast Guard.

Police say Steven Jedi and Scott Stanton were boldly flying a Jolly Roger from their boat. Their attempt to plunder a 40-foot sailboat was foiled when the boat’s owner suddenly startled them.

“He confronted them…they left the boat…they claimed that they were armed and he should not report this to the police,” said Lt. John McCarthy of the Gloucester Police Department.

“If they’re gonna do it, why not do it in a rowboat? You might get away in a rowboat but you won’t get away in a big boat cause where are you gonna put it,” asked Herb Wennerverg.

Police cornered the pretend pirates not too far away in Smith’s Cove. Their boat was identified by the black pirate flag. And while they didn’t have to walk the plank, they did have to go before a judge.

Both men entered not guilty pleas. One man was ordered held on bail and the other man was released on his own personal recognizance.

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