Cromwell v. The Island City
United States Supreme Court
66 U.S. 121 (1861)

- Written by Alex Ruskell, JD
Facts
The Island City (defendant) became disabled, and its crew was rescued by another ship. The Westernport (plaintiff) discovered the evacuated vessel and towed the Island City to harbor. While the Westernport had control of the Island City, the Westernport crew broke open chests and stole many items from the Island City under a plan of general plunder. Even so, the Westernport sued the Island City claiming that it was entitled to a salvage award. The lower court ruled that the Westernport was not entitled to an award, and the Westernport appealed.
Rule of Law
Issue
Holding and Reasoning (Grier, J.)
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