In Miami, a 16-year-old charged with the sexual assault and murder of his 18-year-old stepsister on a Carnival Cruise ship surrendered to authorities on Monday. This follows a federal judge’s decision to reverse his decision on pretrial release, now treating the case as an adult matter. The teen, Timothy Hudson, is now under custody as confirmed by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Edwin Torres originally allowed Hudson to live with an uncle under electronic monitoring. However, after the case was transferred to adult court in April, prosecutors requested his detention. Judge Torres agreed, citing the government’s evidence that no release conditions could ensure community safety.
Hudson pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder and aggravated sexual abuse. The case is unusual as minors are rarely prosecuted in federal court, but the crime occurred in international waters, outside state jurisdiction. The victim, Anna Kepner, was found deceased in their shared cabin on the Carnival Horizon ship in November.
The cause of Anna Kepner’s death was mechanical asphyxia, caused by an obstruction or force preventing breathing. During a May 27 hearing, prosecutors argued Hudson’s alleged crimes were too severe to risk his release. They highlighted the risk of flight and the potential life sentence Hudson faces if convicted in adult court.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Alejandra Lopez emphasized the evidence indicating Hudson allegedly raped and strangled Kepner over a span of 3-5 minutes. The defense, represented by Evan Kuhl of the Federal Public Defender’s office, argued Hudson complied with his release conditions since February.
Kepner’s family expressed their trust in the justice system in a statement. Her father described the ordeal as painful and complex for the whole family. Kepner was a high school cheerleader, remembered fondly at her memorial service, where attendees wore bright colors to celebrate her vibrant personality.