Vyacheslav S. Migitskiy, Making a False Statement, New York 2022

BUFFALO, N.Y. – In a shocking case of deception, Vyacheslav S. Migitskiy, a 33-year-old Ukrainian national living in Rochester, New York, has pleaded guilty to making a materially false statement.

Migitskiy’s crime dates back to August 2022, when he intentionally sunk a 25-foot Bayliner boat on Lake Ontario without reporting his actions. The following day, civilian witnesses discovered the partially submerged boat and reported the sinking to the United States Coast Guard, triggering a massive search and rescue effort.

The search and rescue operation, which involved the Coast Guard, New York State Police, and other law enforcement agencies, resulted in significant expenses. The United States Coast Guard spent $14,194 during the search, while the New York State Police spent $1,248.

Migitskiy was interviewed by a Special Agent with the Coast Guard on October 4, 2022, during which he provided false information about the boat’s ownership and disposal. He claimed to have donated the vessel to unnamed individuals and provided false descriptions of how they removed the boat from his property.

The plea is the result of an investigation by multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Coast Guard Investigative Service, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, New York State Police, Gates Police Department, Rochester Fire Department, Irondequoit Police Department, and Greece Police Department.

Migitskiy faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Sentencing is scheduled for April 18, 2024, at 3 p.m. before U.S. District Judge Geraci.

The case highlights the importance of truthful reporting and the consequences of making false statements to authorities. It also underscores the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies in investigating and solving complex crimes.

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