Authorities, however, were not amused when Matthew R. Wilson, 51, took a sailboat from the Sheboygan Yacht Club for a joyride, the Sheybogan Press reported.
According to a criminal complaint, Wilson, who is homeless, was charged Tuesday with theft of more than $100,000 and criminal damage to property, the newspaper reported.
Sheboygan police were called to a Coast Guard station Saturday regarding the theft of the 40-foot Tartan 4000.sailboat, which is valued between $400,000 and $450,000, WITI reported.
According to the criminal complaint, Wilson told police he had been kicked out of the Salvation Army because he was intoxicated, WISN reported.. He went from boat to boat in the marina until he found one open. the television station reported.
According to police, Wilson found the keys and started the boat's engine before driving it away from the marina. Wilson said when he went to roll a cigarette, the boat ran ashore, WISN reported.
Wilson was identified as the only person on the boat.
The sailboat was ultimately towed back to the Coast Guard station.
According to court documents, Wilson told police "It was a beautiful ride. It was a beautiful ride, at least," when he was taken into custody, the Press reported. An officer said there were scuff marks on the boat's hull, a gouge on the stern and partially consumed beer cans on deck, according to the criminal complaint.
Wilson's preliminary breath test registered at .162, which is double the legal limit in Wisconsin, WITI reported.
Wilson made a court appearance Tuesday. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for June 26, the television reported.
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