Teen Charged with Murder and Sexual Assault on Cruise Ship
A 16-year-old from Florida faces serious charges as an adult in connection with the murder and sexual assault of his stepsister, Anna Kepner, aboard a Carnival cruise last year, according to authorities.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida stated that a federal grand jury has indicted the teen, identified in court documents as “TH, 16, of Titusville.” He has been charged with first-degree murder and aggravated sexual abuse.
If found guilty, TH could face a life sentence. Initially, he was charged as a juvenile on February 2 before being moved to adult charges by U.S. District Judge Beth Bloom.
As previously reported, Anna, 18, was on a family vacation aboard the Carnival Horizon, which left Miami for a six-day Caribbean journey last November. She was traveling with her father, stepmother, grandparents, and her stepmother’s two children—including TH, who has now been implicated in her death.
On November 7, a crew member on the cruise ship discovered Anna’s body hidden under a bed in the cabin she shared with her stepbrother. This unfortunate event took place while the ship was in international waters, heading back to Miami.
The medical examiner ruled Anna’s death a homicide. The U.S. Attorney’s Office indicated that TH is suspected of both sexually assaulting and intentionally killing her. The Miami-Dade Medical Examiner’s Office concluded that her cause of death was mechanical asphyxia, potentially from a technique known as a bar hold, with noticeable bruises on her neck.
The FBI is involved in the investigation, given the alleged crime occurred in international waters and involved a U.S. citizen.
Jason A. Redding Quiñones, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, expressed condolences to the victim’s family, emphasizing the seriousness of the charges stemming from actions taken aboard a vessel on the high seas. The case will be pursued with utmost seriousness and professionalism.
TH had his first appearance in federal court in Miami on February 6, after which he was released into his family’s custody, as reported by law enforcement officials.
Anna’s biological father, Christopher Kepner, stated that it’s crucial for justice to be served, insisting that the teen, now considered an adult, should be held accountable. He previously mentioned the need to honor Anna’s life and ensure her story isn’t forgotten.
Family members have expressed deep anguish over the loss. Anna’s grandmother stated in November, “I couldn’t understand why someone would hurt my baby.” Her grandfather shared their hopes of seeing her grow up, noting that the cruise was meant to bring the family closer.
Anna was remembered as a vibrant, loving high school cheerleader with a strong faith, as described in her obituary.
