Somali Pirates Charged in U.S. Courts

Eleven alleged Somali pirates, charged in a Virginia Court yesterday, have not entered pleas but have indicated that they understand the accusations being set against them. The case indicates a landmark moment in the ongoing saga over who should take charge of bringing the hi-jackers to justice when the crime is committed in international waters. Check out the full story, as well as pictures and video below!

The eleven accused came from two different groups that had attacked U.S. Navy ships earlier this year. The first five had mistaken the USS Nicholas for a cargo frigate and attempted to hi-jack the ship. Not smart! The other six had allegedly opened fire upon the USS Ashland in waters near Djibouti.


The U.S. has been increasing its presence in the waters near Kenya due to the increasing rates of incidents. The alleged Somali pirates, charged with more than enough for life sentences, are being brought to justice as part of an ongoing effort to stabilize international waters according to NCIS Special Agent in Charge Russ.

“The Naval Criminal Investigative Service provides unique forward deployed law enforcement capabilities to the U.S. Navy’s Maritime Strategy,” said the agent. “This case demonstrates the working relationship between uniformed military forces and NCIS – which is a civilian agency – and our federal partners to ensure cooperative security and stability across the maritime domain.”

U.S. Attorney MacBride issued a statement on the proceedings as well:

“Since the earliest days of this country, piracy has been a serious crime. Piracy threatens human lives and disrupts international commerce. When pirates attack U.S. vessels by force, they must face severe consequences.”

The defendents are being accused of piracy, attacking to plunder a vessel, assault with a deadly weapon, conspiracy to use firearms during an act of violence, and using firearms in an act of violence. The first accustation carries a life sentence in itself, and the others can total up to another 50 years if they escape the first.

The Somali pirates, charged in U.S. Courts for the first time since the nineteenth century will no doubt receive swift justice. But what does this mean for the other vigilantes on high waters? Will the U.S. only bring to justice those stupid enough to fire upon a U.S. Navy ship? Let me know what you think in the comments section!

Also, check out the pictures and video below!