Summary
A 16-year-old boy, Timothy Hudson, has been charged with murder and sexual abuse in the death of his 18-year-old stepsister, Anna Kepner, aboard a Carnival cruise ship. Prosecutors plan to use DNA and other evidence in the case, which is being handled in federal court because the crime occurred in international waters.
Key Facts
- Timothy Hudson is charged with first-degree murder and aggravated sexual abuse.
- Anna Kepner was found dead under a bed on the cruise ship in November.
- The cause of death was mechanical asphyxia, meaning her breathing was blocked by physical force or an object.
- The case was moved from juvenile to adult court with a judge’s approval.
- The crime happened onboard a U.S.-based cruise ship in international waters near Florida.
- Prosecutors likely have DNA and cellphone evidence linking Hudson to the crime.
- Hudson was reportedly the last person with Kepner before she died.
- He has been living with an uncle while awaiting trial and faces life in prison if convicted.
