A 16-year-old boy accused of murdering his stepsister, Anna Kepner, aboard a Carnival Cruise Line ship in November 2025 has pleaded not guilty to charges of first-degree murder and aggravated sexual abuse. The case, originally handled in juvenile court, has been transferred to the federal adult system, prompting prosecutors to request pretrial detention. The defendant, identified as Thomas Hudson, waived his appearance at his arraignment, according to court filings.
Anna Kepner, an 18-year-old cheerleader, died from mechanical asphyxiation, officials said. Prosecutors allege that Hudson sexually assaulted and intentionally killed his stepsister during a family vacation. The case has drawn significant attention due to its complex family dynamics, as the suspect is the stepson of Kepner’s father, Chris Kepner, and his mother, Shauntel Kepner.
Prosecutors argue that the case warrants strict pretrial detention now that the defendant is being prosecuted as an adult. They claim the teenager poses a flight risk and a danger to the community. The defense, however, maintains that the suspect should remain free while awaiting trial.
Chris Kepner, Anna’s father, has expressed frustration over the suspect’s continued freedom, stating in an interview with the Daily Mail that he believes the accused should have been arrested months ago. The family has described the tragedy as devastating, emphasizing that Anna was deeply loved and that they remain committed to honoring her memory.
The case is ongoing, with legal proceedings expected to continue in federal court.