🛑 Swashbuckling on the Sound | Thursday, July 23, 2025 Drunken Boater Leads Officers on Water Chase: Police

By Samantha Vogel-Hespos, Editor | Long Island Daily News – Shelter Island

A calm Monday afternoon on Shelter Island’s Dering Harbor turned into a high-stakes nautical pursuit when 54‑year‑old Michael Heinke of Old Saybrook, CT, was apprehended by the Shelter Island Police Department’s marine patrol on charges of boating while intoxicated and reckless operation of a vessel, authorities confirm .

According to police reports, officers spotted a vessel under Heinke’s control at approximately 3:56 p.m. showing signs of impairment. When approached, he allegedly sped off, prompting a marine chase that spanned Dering Harbor and continued toward the narrow Plum Gut channel—an area known for its challenging currents and tight navigation.

“Initial attempts to stop the boat were ignored, leading to a pursuit that only concluded safely before the vessel entered the Plum Gut,” said a police spokesperson . Heinke was subsequently detained, transported to Shelter Island, and processed. He now faces charges including operating a vessel with a BAC over .08%, reckless operation, failure to yield right-of-way, and registration violations. Following processing, he was released on a desk appearance ticket and will appear before Shelter Island Justice Court at a later date .

No injuries or damage were reported during the incident. Authorities emphasized the danger posed by impaired boat operators, especially in local waters that host abundant recreational activity during summer months.

Marine Patrol Chief Thomas Jacobs warns, “Even at moderate speeds, alcohol significantly impairs judgment and reaction time on water. We urge all boaters to designate a sober skipper or use alternative transportation if drinking.”

As summer reaches its peak, Shelter Island officials remind residents and seasonal visitors to obey safe boating practices:

• Never operate a vessel under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Keep a proper lookout and yield right-of-way to avoid collisions
• Ensure registration and safety equipment are up to date
• Be aware of local navigation hazards, including strong currents

This episode arrives amid a broader Suffolk County initiative combating boating under the influence—a collaborative enforcement effort with the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department and State Police, aimed at preventing maritime accidents.

Let this incident serve as a stern reminder: on the water, safety always comes first.

Stay tuned for further courtroom developments and seasonal boating alerts from Long Island Daily News.

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