Florida Teen Ordered to Stay in Custody Until Trial for Stepsister’s Murder

A federal judge in Florida has ordered a teenager to remain in custody until his trial for the sexual assault and murder of his stepsister on a cruise ship last year, as revealed in court documents unsealed on Monday.

Previously, Timothy Hudson, 16, was allowed to live with an uncle while awaiting trial for the November 7, 2025, death of Anna Kepner, 18. However, U.S. District Judge Edwin Torres reversed this decision in an order dated June 10. The judge stated that Hudson poses a danger to himself and others, a risk that cannot be mitigated by curfew, monitoring, or custodial placement.

Hudson, indicted as an adult earlier this year, has pleaded not guilty to charges of first-degree murder and aggravated sexual abuse. A conviction could lead to a life sentence. Despite having no prior criminal record and complying with previous release conditions, the judge noted the allegations indicate “a level of psychopathy and lack of remorse” that raise concerns about potential future violence.

Hudson’s defense team has yet to comment on the situation. Anna Kepner’s father married Hudson’s mother in December 2024, and Hudson allegedly killed Kepner 11 months later during a cruise vacation.

Kepner’s body was discovered in the cabin she shared with Hudson, concealed under the bed in a blanket and life vests. The medical examiner’s findings confirmed she was both sexually assaulted and asphyxiated.

According to NBC South Florida, Hudson has been detained at the Citrus County jail and must be transferred to Miami by July 10. His trial is set to start in September.

Kepner was a high school senior and cheerleader with aspirations to join the University of Georgia. Her father described her as a “beautiful, bright young girl” whose future was tragically cut short.