MIAMI (Tribune News Service) — A routine patrol inspection by the U.S. Coast Guard off the coast of Fort Lauderdale led to the discovery of 550 pounds of cocaine — worth millions — hidden in suitcases.

James Edward White, 35, was piloting a 36-foot Sea Ray named Bella Vita when he entered Port Everglades around 6:40 p.m. Saturday, according to federal officials. Coast Guard officers, conducting a routine patrol, stopped the vessel for inspection near Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park.

White, the only person on board, told officers he had traveled from the Bahamas and admitted there were drugs on the vessel. A search of the boat uncovered multiple suitcases in the lower cabin, each containing tightly wrapped packages. Field tests later confirmed the substance as cocaine — totaling a street value of $6.3 million, according to the Coast Guard.

Homeland Security investigators took White into custody at the Coast Guard’s station in Fort Lauderdale, where officials say he waived his Miranda rights and spoke with investigators.

White claimed he was initially hired to transport migrants but was instead given a drug-loaded boat in Nassau, Bahamas. White said he was instructed to deliver the vessel to a contact in Fort Lauderdale but was stopped before he could do so.

Federal prosecutors have charged White with possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance and attempt to import a controlled substance.

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