Teen Suspect in Carnival Cruise Homicide Appears in Secret Federal Court
A 16-year-old boy, who is under active investigation for the death of his 18-year-old stepsister aboard a Carnival Cruise ship, made a discreet appearance in federal court last week. The proceedings, however, have been shrouded in secrecy due to the suspect's juvenile status, leaving the public with limited information about the case.
Closed Proceedings and Federal Jurisdiction
Unlike typical adult criminal cases, the federal court docket in Miami provided no explanation for the teenager's appearance, nor did it disclose whether formal charges have been filed. This opacity is standard for juvenile cases, which are closed to the public to protect the minor's identity and legal rights. Juvenile matters are exceptionally rare in federal courts, as they are usually handled at the state level or involve trying the juvenile as an adult.
Fritz Scheller, a defense attorney based in Orlando, emphasized the unusual nature of this federal involvement. He noted that the case likely landed in federal court because the homicide occurred in international waters, placing it under federal jurisdiction. Scheller remarked that in his 27 years of practice, he has never encountered a juvenile case within the federal system, highlighting its rarity.
"The bottom line is the feds really don't have the facilities for juveniles. Where are you going to put them?" Scheller questioned. "The whole theory of juvenile law is that they are young and you can rehabilitate them. The federal criminal justice system isn't focused on rehabilitation."
Victim Anna Kepner and Family Background
The victim, Anna Kepner, was an 18-year-old high school cheerleader at Temple Christian School in Titusville, Florida, located on the state's Space Coast. Described by friends as someone who cherished time on the water, her life was celebrated at a memorial service in November where attendees were encouraged to wear bright colors to honor her "bright and beautiful soul."
Kepner was part of a blended family; her father, Chris, married Shauntel Hudson, who has three children from a previous marriage, including the 16-year-old suspect. Details about the investigation, including the stepbrother's status as a suspect, have emerged primarily from court documents related to a custody dispute between Shauntel Hudson and her ex-husband, Thomas Hudson.
Circumstances of the Homicide
In November, Kepner was traveling on the Carnival Horizon cruise ship with her father, stepmother, two of her stepmother's children, and her grandparents. Before the ship's scheduled return to Florida, Kepner's body was discovered concealed under a bed in a cabin she shared with two other teenagers, one of whom was the younger stepbrother. Her death has been officially ruled a homicide, sparking international attention and widespread speculation on social media platforms.
Family Statements and Quest for Justice
Following the teen's court appearance, Anna Kepner's father, Chris, and stepmother, Shauntel—who is also the suspect's biological mother—issued a joint statement to ABC News. They expressed profound distress that "the person responsible is able to walk freely," adding that this reality intensifies their grief and outrage.
"It is devastating to know that while we live every day with the loss of our child, the individual responsible has not yet been fully held accountable," they stated. "This only strengthens our resolve to continue seeking justice for our daughter." The couple affirmed that Kepner deserves justice and that her life should be honored through a comprehensive and fair legal process.
Anna Kepner's biological mother, Heather Wright, took to social media to voice her hopes for a full resolution, pleading, "Pray for justice for my daughter." Despite outreach from The Associated Press to multiple family members, the FBI, and federal prosecutors, no responses have been forthcoming, further deepening the mystery surrounding the case.
Legal and Emotional Implications
The case underscores the complexities of juvenile justice within the federal system, where rehabilitation-focused approaches typical of state juvenile courts are often absent. As the investigation continues, the sealed nature of the proceedings means that key details—such as specific charges, evidence, and potential trial dates—remain inaccessible to the public.
The homicide has not only devastated Kepner's family but also raised broader questions about safety and legal accountability on cruise ships operating in international waters. With the suspect's identity protected and court records closed, the pursuit of justice for Anna Kepner unfolds behind closed doors, leaving a community and the world awaiting answers.
