MIAMI, June 16, 2026 — A federal judge has ordered a 16-year-old Florida teenager accused of sexually assaulting and killing his stepsister aboard a cruise ship to remain in custody until his trial, citing concerns about public safety and the seriousness of the allegations.
The ruling, issued by U.S. District Judge Edwin Torres, reverses an earlier decision that had permitted the teen, Timothy Hudson, to stay with a relative while awaiting court proceedings. The judge concluded that no supervision arrangement could adequately address the risks posed by the defendant.
Hudson is facing charges of first-degree murder and aggravated sexual abuse in connection with the death of his 18-year-old stepsister, Anna Kepner, during a family cruise in November 2025. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
According to court documents, Judge Torres stated that the nature of the allegations and evidence presented by prosecutors raised significant concerns regarding the defendant’s potential danger to both himself and others. The court noted that continued detention was necessary to ensure community safety while the case proceeds.
The case has drawn national attention due to the circumstances surrounding the alleged crime. Authorities say Kepner was found dead inside the cabin she shared with Hudson during the cruise. Investigators reported that her body was discovered concealed beneath a bed and covered with a blanket and other items.
Medical findings cited in court records indicated that Kepner died from asphyxiation and had allegedly been subjected to sexual assault. Prosecutors have argued that the evidence supports the severe charges filed against Hudson.
The families involved became connected after Kepner’s father married Hudson’s mother in late 2024. Less than a year later, the family vacation ended in tragedy when Kepner was found dead aboard the cruise vessel.
Although Hudson reportedly complied with previous release conditions and had no prior criminal record, the judge determined that the allegations warranted stricter measures pending trial.
Following the latest ruling, Hudson was ordered back into custody and is expected to remain jailed until court proceedings begin. Reports indicate he will be transferred to Miami ahead of his scheduled trial, which is currently set for September.
Kepner was remembered by family members as an ambitious and talented young woman. A high school senior and cheerleader, she had planned to attend college after graduation and was described by loved ones as bright, caring, and full of promise.
As legal proceedings continue, prosecutors and defense attorneys are preparing for what is expected to be a closely watched trial later this year.
