Grandparent sues cruise line over sex assault of 12-year-old
MSC Cruises is being sued for the alleged sexual assault and battery of a 12-year old girl.
The lawsuit, brought by the girl’s legal guardian and grandparent, cites a violation of the International Safety Management Code by failing to protect cruise passengers from sexual assault, according to the Florida Record.
The lawsuit names MSC Cruises (USA) Inc., parent company MSC Crociere SA, and employee Rudy Samuel Santos Hernandez who it alleges committed the attack.
The assault took place on February 14, 2016, the complaint says, saying Hernandez used his service key to enter the room and attack the girl who was alone at the time.
The lawsuit said the minor ‘suffered injuries to her body and extremities, pain and suffering, mental anguish, great shame, psychological trauma and scarring.’
The plaintiff has requested a trial by jury and seeks compensatory damages, interest and costs.
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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