Oregon Coast Guard Station Receives Five Hoax Calls This Month

(NEWPORT AP) - The hoax calls received in Yaquina Bay came in the form of a "Mayday" call for help on V-H-F channel 16. That's the emergency channel that is monitored by the Coast Guard 24-hours a day.

Hoax calls also cost taxpayers thousands of dollars annually. Each hoax call can result in the Coast Guard launching ships, boats and aircraft that could otherwise be used in legitimate search and rescue efforts.

Knowingly and willingly transmitting a hoax call is a Felony offense and is punishable by six to ten years in prison -- and a fine of up to $250,000.