A teenage boy accused of sexually assaulting and killing his 18-year-old stepsister on a Carnival Cruise ship is now in custody. This development follows a federal judge’s decision to revoke his pretrial release, as he is being charged as an adult. Timothy Hudson, the suspect, was charged after U.S. Magistrate Judge Edwin Torres reversed his earlier decision allowing Hudson to stay with a relative under electronic monitoring. The case ascended to adult court in April, prompting prosecutors to seek Hudson’s detention.
The judge agreed with prosecutors that Hudson’s pretrial custody should be handled as if he were an adult. He will be detained in a juvenile facility. Judge Torres cited concerns about community safety as the basis for his decision, stating, “The Government has established, by clear and convincing evidence, that no condition or combination of conditions of release will reasonably assure the safety of the community going forward.” Hudson pleaded not guilty to charges of first-degree murder and aggravated sexual abuse in Anna Kepner’s death. Kepner’s death reportedly occurred in international waters, placing the case under federal jurisdiction.
The tragic incident happened while Anna Kepner was traveling with her family, including Hudson, aboard the Carnival Horizon in November. Kepner’s body was found hidden under a bed in the room she shared with Hudson and another teenager. An autopsy revealed the cause of death as mechanical asphyxia. Prosecutors allege Hudson raped and strangled Kepner, which could have taken several minutes.
At a May 27 hearing, the discussion focused on whether Hudson should remain detained until his trial. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alejandra Lopez argued the severity of the alleged crimes warranted Hudson’s continued detention to prevent potential future violence. She also highlighted a higher flight risk due to Hudson facing life imprisonment if convicted. As a juvenile, he would only be held until age 21.
Despite Hudson’s compliance with previous release conditions, the judge sided with the prosecution’s request for detention. Prosecutor Lopez emphasized the risks posed by Hudson now facing adult charges. Kepner’s father expressed the family’s trust in the justice system to pursue the case thoughtfully. Kepner, a cheerleader from Temple Christian School in Titusville, Florida, was remembered fondly by family and friends at a memorial service, where attendees wore bright colors as a tribute to her spirit.