A U.S. federal judge has raised concerns after reviewing psychological assessments in the case of a 16-year-old accused of killing his 18-year-old stepsister, Anna Marie Kepner, during a Caribbean cruise in November 2025.
Anna was found dead aboard a Carnival Cruise Line ship, and authorities ruled her death a homicide. Her stepbrother, who shared a cabin with her, was arrested and has pleaded not guilty.
Prosecutors argue that the evidence and potential public safety concerns justify keeping him in custody before trial. The judge agreed, citing the seriousness of the allegations and concerns raised in psychological evaluations.
The teenager remains detained under juvenile protections while awaiting trial. The defense maintains his innocence, and the case is still moving through the federal court system.