Investigating Crimes at Sea: A Maritime Attorney and Ex-FBI Agent Discuss

Juvenile Delinquency Act and FBI Investigations

• 💡 The Juvenile Delinquency Act governs how the FBI investigates and adjudicates cases involving minors.
• ⚖️ While juveniles can be tried as adults federally, the majority of cases (over 90%) are transferred to local jurisdictions.

Cruise Ship Security and Crime Scene Protocols

• 🚢 Cruise ships do not have an independent governmental police force; all security personnel are employees of the cruise line, with loyalty to the company.
• 🚨 Security personnel follow protocols when a crime is discovered, but their primary allegiance is to the cruise line, not necessarily to an impartial investigation.
• ⚓ Cruise ships, like the Carnival Horizon, are equipped with a brig or detention facility to hold suspects until reaching port.

FBI Collaboration with Cruise Lines

• 🤝 In past cases, the FBI has established strong relationships with cruise line industries in advance, facilitating cooperation.
• 🗺️ During an investigation on a cruise ship, the FBI can set up a 'war room' and utilize provided spaces for interviews and evidence collection.
• ⏳ The FBI can be granted sufficient time to conduct a thorough investigation and interview witnesses aboard the ship upon arrival in port.