David K. Bachtel, Vessel Destruction, California 2007

SAN FRANCISCO, CA – A California man has completed his sentence for a complex scheme involving the deliberate sinking of a vessel and subsequent obstruction of a federal investigation. David K. Bachtel was convicted in August 2007 on eight counts related to the illegal scuttling of a 37-foot Chris Craft boat and attempts to conceal his involvement.

According to court documents, Bachtel, owner of the Chris Craft, acquired a 40-foot houseboat. Faced with marina limitations allowing only one vessel, Bachtel conspired with an accomplice to intentionally sink the Chris Craft. The pair reportedly punched multiple holes into the hull of the 37-footer, towed it via an inflatable boat to the slip channel, and allowed it to submerge. The act, far from being a simple disposal, quickly escalated into a federal crime.

The incident came to light during vessel recovery operations. Investigators discovered that the boat’s Hull Identification Numbers (HINs) – crucial for identifying the vessel and tracing ownership – had been deliberately removed. However, diligent investigation uncovered documentation linking Bachtel to the ownership of the sunken Chris Craft, unraveling his attempt at deception. The removal of the HINs was a key element in the obstruction charge, demonstrating an intent to evade identification and responsibility.

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Legal Ramifications

Bachtel was initially indicted in September 2005 on nine separate counts, encompassing both environmental and criminal charges. He was ultimately convicted on eight counts, including violations of the Clean Water Act, obstruction of justice, and destruction of a vessel. Specifically, the charges included:

18 U.S.C. 1001: Making false statements to federal investigators.
18 U.S.C. 1519: Obstruction of justice.
18 U.S.C. 2274: Destruction or misuse of a vessel by a person in charge.
33 U.S.C. 1311(a): Violating effluent limitations under the Clean Water Act.
33 U.S.C. 1319(c)(1)(A): Negligent violations of the Clean Water Act.
33 U.S.C. 1321(b)(3): Discharge of oil or hazardous substances into navigable waters.
33 U.S.C. 409: Obstruction of navigable waters – sinking the vessel constituted an obstruction.

Despite the severity of the offenses, Bachtel received a relatively lenient sentence of 72 months probation and a $500 special assessment fee. No fines were imposed. He subsequently appealed the conviction, but the appeal was denied, upholding the original verdict.

Key Facts

Defendant: David K. Bachtel
Location: California
Year of Conviction: 2007
Crime: Intentional sinking of a vessel and obstruction of justice
Vessel: 37-foot Chris Craft
Sentence: 72 months probation, $500 assessment
Key Evidence: Recovered documentation linking Bachtel to ownership despite HIN removal.

This case serves as a stark reminder that attempts to conceal illegal activity, particularly those impacting navigable waters and the environment, will be vigorously prosecuted by federal authorities. The Environmental Protection Agency’s Criminal Investigation Division played a key role in building the case against Bachtel, highlighting the agency’s commitment to enforcing environmental laws and holding perpetrators accountable.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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