Screwball Rules of Engagement

[ETR3(SS)]

Originally Posted by Platapus

One thing to consider is that these pirates don't go out and buy these "mother ships" they steal them. Which means they are still the property of the legitimate owners.

If we sail in, guns a blazin, cowboy style, and sink the ship, the owners of the ship probably would have a case to sue us for the destruction of their property to the tune of a few cubic mega bucks.

"but we waz fightn crime" may not be an acceptable defense.

Just one more complication in a complicated issue.

This brings up an interesting question, how was this same issue addressed during the 17th century heyday of piracy?

This brings up an interesting question, how was this same issue addressed during the 17th century heyday of piracy?

Didn't some naval ships captains end up in debtors prison due to the financial liabilities incurred.

[Platapus]

Originally Posted by ETR3(SS)

This brings up an interesting question, how was this same issue addressed during the 17th century heyday of piracy?

Probably poorly

[Jimbuna]

Originally Posted by ETR3(SS)

This brings up an interesting question, how was this same issue addressed during the 17th century heyday of piracy?

[Bilge_Rat]

Originally Posted by ETR3(SS)

This brings up an interesting question, how was this same issue addressed during the 17th century heyday of piracy?

Pirates would steal/take their ships and upgrade if they found a better one. Edward "Blackbeard" Teach is one the best example of a classic pirate. He was always upgrading/expanding his fleet:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blackbeard

Any regular naval vessel who encountered a pirate ship could seize it as a "prize". In theory, it could then be returned to its rightful owner, although whoever had recovered it was entitled to a reward ("prize money"), which was based on the value of the vessel and cargo aboard.

Stephen Decatur is rolling in his grave.

[August]

Originally Posted by USNSPARKS

Stephen Decatur is rolling in his grave.

True.

Welcome to the forum.

[Growler]

Originally Posted by USNSPARKS

Stephen Decatur is rolling in his grave.

Good first post... let me echo August's welcome.