(a) A person may not abandon, as defined in § 8–721 of this subtitle, any vessel upon any waters of the State.
(b) The last known registered owner shown on the certificate of title issued under § 8–715 of this subtitle shall be considered:
(1) The prima facie owner of a vessel at the time the vessel was abandoned; and
(2) The person who abandoned the vessel.
(c) (1) Any person who violates any provision of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor. Upon conviction, the person is subject to a fine not exceeding $1,000 or imprisonment not exceeding 6 months, or both.
(2) Any person found guilty of a second or subsequent violation of any provision of this section is subject to a fine not exceeding $2,000 or imprisonment not exceeding 1 year, or both.
(3) Any person who violates any provision of this section is liable to the State for the cost of removal of the vessel.
(4) The provisions of this section do not apply to a vessel wrecked through an act of God or negligence of a third party.