New Evidence Submitted in Case Against Timothy Hudson for Alleged Murder of Stepsister on Carnival Cruise Ship
Federal prosecutors have submitted new evidence in the case against Timothy Hudson, who is accused of sexually assaulting and killing his stepsister, Anna Kepner, on a Carnival Cruise ship. The prosecutors have filed new information supporting their request to revoke Hudson's release until his murder trial in September 2026.
Hudson, identified as T.H. in the filings, was indicted as an adult for first-degree murder and aggravated sexual abuse after Kepner was found dead in a Carnival cruise cabin in November 2025. The prosecutors have submitted sealed evidence related to examinations or tests conducted, seeking to revoke Hudson's release pending trial.
The new evidence does not specify the nature of the examinations or tests conducted, as the details are under seal. The government's motion aims to overturn the teen suspect's release and place him back in custody before the trial. Hudson was initially charged as a juvenile but was indicted as an adult in April, potentially leading to his detention before trial.
Despite the indictment, a judge ruled on May 27 that Hudson could remain free with certain restrictions until his murder trial. Kepner's parents expressed their frustration with Hudson's freedom, emphasizing the need for him to face consequences and be detained before the trial. If convicted, Hudson could face a maximum penalty of life in prison.
The case involves detailed timelines of events leading up to Kepner's death, including Hudson's presence in the cabin and the discovery of Kepner's body. Prosecutors highlighted the movements of Hudson and Kepner's phone on the cruise ship, leading to the discovery of Kepner's body under a bed. The evidence presented underscores the gravity of the charges against Hudson and the need for a thorough investigation and trial.