Florida Judge Orders Teen Held in Cruise Ship Case

A federal judge in Florida ordered a teenager to remain in custody until his trial in connection with the sexual assault and murder of his stepsister aboard a cruise ship. Court records unsealed on Monday disclosed the decision.

The order reversed an earlier decision that allowed Timothy Hudson, 16, to live with an uncle while awaiting trial for the November 7, 2025, killing of Anna Kepner, 18. U.S. District Judge Edwin Torres stated in the June 10 order that Hudson represents a threat to himself and others, which cannot be mitigated by curfew or monitoring.

Charged as an adult earlier this year, Hudson has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder and aggravated sexual abuse. A conviction could result in a life sentence. Hudson has no past criminal record and adhered to his release conditions, yet Torres emphasized the allegations imply a dangerous level of psychopathy and lack of remorse.

Efforts by Hudson’s caretakers to prevent any incidents may not suffice, the judge noted. Hudson’s legal representatives have not commented on the case.

Kepner’s father married Hudson’s mother in December 2024. Hudson allegedly killed Kepner 11 months later during a cruise vacation.

She was a beautiful, bright young girl who had so much life ahead of her, so many dreams, milestones, and moments that were taken far too soon.

Kepner’s body was discovered in the room she shared with Hudson, concealed under the bed with life vests. The medical examiner reported she had been sexually assaulted and asphyxiated.

As per NBC South Florida, Hudson is currently held in Citrus County jail and must transfer to Miami by July 10. His trial is set to commence in September. Kepner was a high school senior and cheerleader with aspirations of attending the University of Georgia.