A federal judge in Miami has decided not to jail Timothy Hudson, a 16-year-old from Florida, who is accused of killing and sexually assaulting his 18-year-old stepsister, Anna Kepner, aboard a Carnival cruise ship. The decision was made on Wednesday (May 27) by U.S. District Judge Edwin Torres, who allowed Hudson to remain in the custody of a family member while awaiting trial.

Hudson, initially charged as a juvenile, was indicted as an adult by a federal grand jury in April, raising the possibility of detention. However, Judge Torres considered the challenges of detaining Hudson in Miami-Dade County, far from his family in Hernando County. Torres expressed a desire to explore options for detaining Hudson closer to home before making a final decision.

Prosecutor Alejandra Lopez argued that Hudson poses a danger to the community, questioning the safety of allowing him to reside with his uncle, where two minors also live. She emphasized the severity of the charges, including first-degree murder and aggravated sexual abuse, and noted that Hudson could face a life sentence if convicted as an adult.

Hudson's defense, led by Evan Kuhl, argued that he is neither a danger to the public nor a flight risk, having complied with his release conditions without incident. Hudson is required to stay with his uncle or aunt and is subject to electronic monitoring.

Kepner was found dead on November 6, 2025, during a family cruise. Her body was discovered under a bed in a room shared with Hudson. The Miami-Dade medical examiner ruled her death a homicide by mechanical asphyxiation.

The trial is expected to begin in September, and Hudson's family, including his stepfather, Chris Kepner, is hopeful for justice. Chris Kepner stated, "The situation is deeply painful and complex for the entire family," and expressed trust in the justice system to uncover the truth.