Tips sought on false SOS calls sent to Coast Guard
1/28/2012MONROE -- For two years, someone has been sending false distress calls to the Coast Guard, authorities said.
In each call, which originate from the Bolles Harbor area, just south of Monroe, the caller says he is in distress and either on a boat or in a plane, authorities said.
The calls are transmitted over marine band radio, VHF-FM Channel 16, which is the international hailing and distress frequency.
In at least one call, a man is heard saying his boat is on fire. In another a man reports his boat is sinking.
The Coast Guard Investigative Services, in partnership with Crime Stoppers of Michigan, is offering a $3,500 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction.
Anyone with information should call 313-568-9560 or 1-800-773-2587.