NJ Man Sentenced in Boat-Sinking Scheme

A federal judge has sentenced a Philadelphia man to two years in prison for a botched scheme to sink a boat for insurance money.

Manh Nguyen was one of several people charged in the unsuccessful sinking of the Alexander II about 80 miles southeast of Cape May in 2009. He pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to destroy a vessel on the high seas.

The U.S. Attorney's Office says Nguyen and boat owner Scott Tran paid a captain and crew to sink the boat so Tran could collect $400,000 in insurance. The Coast Guard rescued the boat and crew.

Tran's claim was denied, and he sued in court seeking damages.

In addition to Nguyen, Tran and three other people have pleaded guilty in the scheme. Tran is awaiting sentencing.