People from across the United States take cruises every year on American-flagged cruise ships that depart from Florida ports.
People might not think about it, but federal criminal law may apply on these boats, especially if they are away from the coast. This means that crimes will be prosecuted in the local Florida federal court.
If an incident happens while a ship is docked in Fort Lauderdale, local police and prosecutors may also investigate and take up any criminal charges in state court.
Crime is relatively rare on cruise ships, but criminal cases, including felony cases, get opened based on what happened while on a cruise.
According to a post from the FBI, charges like assault, including sexual assault, are more frequent accusations on cruise ships relative to other types of crime. One FBI agent stated that alcohol consumption is often a factor in alleged criminal activity.
Of course, people should watch their alcohol intake and should otherwise use good judgment while having a fun time on a cruise. Sometimes, people do make mistakes, but one mistake should not ruin their lives.
Moreover, false or exaggerated allegations can happen just easily at sea as they can on land.
It is important to remember on this note that, even if they are well-trained, the private security forces aboard cruise ships are not working as deputized law enforcement officers.
Also, there may be some question about how far these security employees may go with respect to detaining people or searching their belongings. In any event, these employees of the cruise ships will usually be the first to investigate an alleged offense.
Those accused of a crime while aboard a cruise ship should know their options
Whether the charge gets filed in state or federal court, someone who has been accused of a crime while on a cruise will need to know their options and possible defenses.
The penalties and other consequences for a criminal conviction can turn what was supposed to be a great lifetime experience into a long-lasting and serious problem.