The father of an 18-year-old girl, who was reportedly murdered and sexually assaulted in a cruise ship cabin, has expressed his concerns about the alleged assailant, his brother-in-law. He described the 16-year-old, known as TH, as a “dangerous man” who appeared in court in “an orange jumpsuit and handcuffs.”
Christopher Kepner shared his frustration with the situation, stating that despite TH being federally charged as an adult, he was still allowed to remain with relatives. “I’m angry that he’s not incarcerated yet. It’s been six months, and he should’ve been taken into custody,” he mentioned, expressing his fears for public safety given that the accused is free to move about as he chooses.
TH was initially charged as a juvenile on February 2 and faces serious counts of first-degree murder and aggravated sexual abuse. If found guilty, he could spend the rest of his life in prison.
The tragic events unfolded during a family vacation, where Anna, affectionately known as “Anna Banana,” was discovered dead on the cruise ship. Her family had been onboard, including her father, stepmother, and several siblings.
“I want to see him in an orange jumpsuit and handcuffs. He doesn’t need to be free,” Kepner asserted, worrying about the potential danger TH poses, especially around vulnerable individuals.
Since the incident, Christopher noted that TH has shown no remorse, stating, “He still claims he can’t remember anything, but that’s all he says. No apologies, no remorse at all,” reflecting deep disappointment.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida has announced that the charges against Anna’s brother-in-law will proceed in adult court, emphasizing the seriousness of the allegations. If convicted, TH could face a life sentence. The attorney representing TH has yet to be reached for a comment.
Jason A. Redding Quiñones, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, said, “Our hearts go out to the victim’s family, who are experiencing this unimaginable loss. A federal grand jury has returned an indictment regarding serious crimes allegedly committed on board a vessel on the high seas. We intend to present evidence and proceed with this case responsibly.” He reiterated the principle that defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Anna was found dead around 11:15 a.m. on November 7. Authorities have classified her death as a homicide due to “mechanical asphyxiation.” She was discovered wrapped in a blanket and wearing a life jacket beneath the bed in the shared cabin.
In February, TH was seen arriving at a federal courthouse in Miami, discreetly dressed and attempting to stay out of view.
