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APPS/MARPOL
Case Summaries & Documents
APPS Serving the Public Interest
Whistleblower Laws & Links
The New Whistleblower's Handbook
KKC in the News
Leading whistleblower attorney featured in Italian newspaper
Danske Bank Opened Internal Investigation to Discredit Whistleblower
Leading IRS Whistleblower Attorney Featured in Bloomberg Article
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Whistleblowers Under the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships
Resources for Whistleblowers
Whistleblowers are the key to preventing illegal oil and waste pollution in our oceans. Of the thousands of ships at sea every day, up to 15% will knowingly pollute by ignoring and bypassing regulations. Far away from official oversight and in international waters, the only people who can prevent this from happening are the courageous whistleblowers who report this behavior. Those who are brave enough to draw attention to violations of the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships ("APPS") or the MARPOL Protocol can be compensated with up to 50% of the monetary penalties that the United States Government receives from the guilty parties.
Here are cases in which whistleblowers have been rewarded for their courage and their aid in preventing ocean pollution. In many of these cases, the fines and penalties disclosed have been used to serve the public interest and fund environmental groups and organizations.
If you would like to consult a skilled attorney for help on your case, please fill out the form here.
The Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships ("APPS") authorizes U.S. Courts to award whistleblowers with substantial sums. This law covers violations of international law, including the MARPOL Protocol and the Antarctic-Environmental Protocol (also known as the Madrid Protocol). "In the discretion of the Court, an amount equal to not more than 1⁄2 of such fine may be paid to the person giving information leading to conviction." 33 U.S.C. § 1908(a).
APPS Statute
Section on Whistleblower Rights and Reporting
Public Law that enacted the Whistleblower reward provision
United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea
The International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL 73/78)
MARPOL Protocol
DOJ argues on behalf of whistleblowers, explains the importance of rewards
DOJ press release documenting the importance of employees in uncovering violations
Drilling Operator Sentenced: DOJ Press Release announcing $512,000 reward
DOJ press release announcing $375,000 reward
Background into DOJ enforcement of APPS
A Seafarer's Guide: Handbook on APPS rules
SCI's Center for Seafarer's Rights
Marine Defenders
APPS/MARPOL Whistleblower Disclosures Serve the Public Interest
Ocean Pollution Cases
For More Ocean Pollution Resources, click here.