Coast Guard looking for hoax caller

 SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. (AP) -- The U.S. Coast Guard says it needs help identifying a suspected hoax caller.

   Coast Guard officials said in a statement Tuesday the caller contacted Sector Sault St. Marie three times between Sept. 12-27.

   Officials said the first two calls were made on Sept. 12 and included "Mayday" calls from the "Magyver" and "Banana" motor vessels. Both claimed they were "taking on water."

   A Sept. 27 call made from the "Fox" made the same claims.

   A false distress call is a felony. Penalties include up to six years in prison, a $250,000 fine, a $5,000 civil penalty and the possible reimbursement to the U.S. Coast Guard for all costs related to a search.

   Coast Guard officials are asking anyone with information to call 906-635-3319.