MySource:Peter swaine/Sussex Smugglers, Pirates and Highwaymen

"In 1821 a fishing smack belonging to Joseph Swaine, of Hastings, was boarded by revenue officers off the coast of Hastings, and the boat was taken ashore to be searched. In the process of the search an argument took place between Swaine and George England, a Coastal Blockade Officer. Swaine forced England out of the boat, after taking away his cutlass, and throwing it into the sea. When out of the boat, England stepped back a few paces, and shot Swaine dead on the spot. England was subsequently tried for murder at Horsham, found guilty and sentenced to be hanged, but was later pardoned. The affair caused great excitement in Hasting, and no doubt, amongst the revenue service."