Us Code § 2273 - Destruction of vessel by nonowner

Full text of Us Code United States Code § 2273 — Destruction of vessel by nonowner, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 2273. Destruction of vessel by nonowner

Whoever, not being an owner, upon the high seas or on any other waters within the admiralty and maritime jurisdiction of the United States, willfully and corruptly casts away or otherwise destroys any vessel of the United States to which he belongs, or willfully attempts the destruction thereof, shall be imprisoned not more than ten years.

(June 25, 1948, ch. 645, 62 Stat. 804.)

Historical and Revision Notes

Based on title 18, U.S.C., 1940 ed., §492 (Mar. 4, 1909, ch. 321, §301, 35 Stat. 1147).

Words "with intent to destroy the same, sets fire to any such vessel, or otherwise" following "willfully" and preceding "attempts" were omitted as surplusage.

About This Section

18 U.S.C. § 2273 is part of Title 18 of the United States Code. The United States Code is the official codification of federal statutes maintained by the Office of the Law Revision Counsel of the U.S. House of Representatives. Congress amends the Code through new public laws, which are eventually incorporated into the relevant title.

This section may be cited in legal writing as 18 U.S.C. § 2273. For the most current official text, including any recent amendments, use the official source links below. Do not rely on this page as the sole authority for legal citation or litigation.

How to Read This Statute

Statutes are organized by title, chapter, section, and subsection. Pay attention to words like "shall," "may," "and," and "or," because they determine whether a requirement is mandatory or permissive and whether multiple conditions must all be met. Historical notes and amendments often appear at the end of a section.

Using This Page

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Sources

Frequently Asked Questions About Us Code § 2273

What does United States Code § 2273 cover?

Section 2273 ("Destruction of vessel by nonowner") is part of the United States Code, the codified statutory law of Us Code. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Us Code § 2273?

A common citation format is "United States Code § 2273" (Us Code). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Us Code law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Us Code official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Us Code attorney.

How does Us Code § 2273 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Us Code can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.