A federal judge has ruled that a teenager must stay in jail until his trial for the sexual assault and murder of his stepsister on a cruise ship, according to court documents unsealed on Monday. The decision reverses a previous order allowing 16-year-old Timothy Hudson to live with an uncle while awaiting trial for the November 7, 2025, killing of Anna Kepner, who was 18.
In his ruling, U.S. District Judge Edwin Torres stated that Hudson, charged as an adult, poses a potential threat to himself and others. Torres noted that no curfew, monitor, or placement could sufficiently mitigate this risk. Hudson has entered a not guilty plea against charges of first-degree murder and aggravated sexual abuse. A life sentence could result if he is convicted.
Though Hudson had no prior criminal record and adhered to his release conditions, the judge expressed concern over his psychological state. Torres cited the allegations as evidence of a potential psychopathic tendency and lack of remorse, raising significant worries about Hudson’s stability.
The legal team representing Hudson declined to comment. Kepner’s father and Hudson’s mother had married in December 2024, almost a year before the incident. Kepner was found dead in the cruise ship room she shared with her stepbrother. Her body was discovered under a bed, wrapped in a blanket, and concealed by life vests.
A medical examination confirmed that she was sexually assaulted and asphyxiated, as included in the judge’s ruling. NBC South Florida reports that Hudson was originally detained in Citrus County jail. He has until July 10 to be transferred to Miami, where his trial is set to commence in September.
Kepner, a high school senior and cheerleader, had plans to attend the University of Georgia. Her father described her as a “beautiful, bright young girl” and lamented the loss of her future filled with dreams, achievements, and cherished moments.