An American citizen was taken into custody in Miami on Thursday after an unusual theft incident involving a rented boat that journeyed from the Florida Keys to the shores of Cuba. Floyd Dean Devasier, a 63-year-old resident of Katy, Texas, faced charges for "renting or leasing with intent to defraud" after leaving the country aboard a 26.5-foot skiff rented from Beach Weekend Key West marina on Stock Island.
According to the Monroe County Sheriff's Office, the boat was rented on Tuesday under strict conditions: adherence to maritime laws, no nighttime operation, and return before the marina closed on Wednesday. However, Devasier failed to honor these terms. Suspicion arose when he purchased and filled an additional 20-gallon fuel tank before departing. Although he claimed he would dock the boat on Front Street's 6800 block overnight, local merchants and boat owners reported otherwise, and security cameras confirmed the boat never arrived.
Jayme Nabors, the marina owner, noticed unusual GPS activity indicating the boat heading south into the Atlantic Ocean. Unable to reach Devasier, Nabors alerted the Coast Guard and the Monroe County Sheriff's Office. A fisherman in the vicinity spotted the boat near U.S. waters and provided photographs to authorities.
Later, the Cuban Border Guard informed the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that they had Devasier, the boat, and a 38-year-old woman in custody. On Thursday, Devasier flew back to Miami, where federal authorities apprehended him based on a warrant issued by Monroe County.
Official sources confirmed that Devasier has no known connections to Cuba. This incident was not his first; he has a criminal history involving drug offenses, including a 2019 incident where another rented boat ended up in Cuba.
"Our team acted swiftly, and we remain dedicated to ensuring the ongoing safety and compliance of all rental operations," stated Jayme Nabors. Monroe County Sheriff Rick Ramsay expressed gratitude to all parties involved in resolving the case. "I want to thank the U.S. Coast Guard, Homeland Security Investigations, the Cuban Border Guard, and the good Samaritan on the water for their assistance and cooperation," he stated.
The investigation continues under federal and local authorities.
Understanding the Incident with Floyd Dean Devasier
Why was Floyd Dean Devasier arrested?
Floyd Dean Devasier was arrested for renting a boat with the intent to defraud, as he took the boat from the Florida Keys to Cuba, violating rental terms.
Did Devasier have any criminal history?
Yes, Devasier had a prior criminal record involving drug offenses, and he was involved in a similar incident in 2019 with another rented boat.
What actions were taken by the marina owner?
The marina owner, Jayme Nabors, noticed unusual GPS activity and, unable to contact Devasier, alerted the Coast Guard and the Monroe County Sheriff's Office.