Millionaire Buys His Way Out of Bahamian Prison
October 29, 2025 · 8 min · 70K views · Port Everglades
What this video covers
James Finkel, owner of the 126-foot motor yacht Odin, avoided a mandatory six-year prison sentence in the Bahamas by paying a $1.45 million penalty.3:55 Bahamian authorities arrested Finkel on October 22 after boarding the vessel at Resorts World Bimini, where they discovered an undeclared cache of 13 firearms and over 1,000 rounds of ammunition.2:04 Although Finkel initially declared only two weapons, police located additional firearms in a closet, leading to 27 charges including possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition with intent to supply.2:03 Finkel pleaded guilty to all charges as part of a plea agreement that allowed for the financial settlement in lieu of incarceration.3:02 Following his release, the yacht returned to Port Everglades, Florida, where it was met by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.1:11 The incident highlights the strict legal requirements for declaring firearms when entering Bahamian waters and the severe consequences for failing to comply with local customs and immigration regulations.
More from The Sailing Doodles Podcast
From The Sailing Doodles Podcast — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analyzed video.
The Sailing Directory Newsletter
One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.