12 Royal Caribbean Passengers File Lawsuit Against Cruise Line and Ex-Crew Member for Hidden Camera Incident in Cabins

12 Royal Caribbean Guests Sue Cruise Line Over Hidden Camera Incident

Source: USA TODAY

Background of the Case

• 12 passengers from Royal Caribbean International are suing the cruise line and a former crew member, Arvin Joseph Mirasol.
• Mirasol, a stateroom attendant on the Symphony of the Seas, was convicted for secretly filming guests in their cabins, including minors.
• He was sentenced to 30 years in prison for producing child pornography after pleading guilty in August 2024.

Details of the Allegations

• The lawsuit was filed in the Southern District of Florida, covering incidents that occurred during cruises in December 2023 and January 2024.
• The plaintiffs claim Mirasol transmitted images of them in compromising situations to unapproved third parties, including the dark web.
• Passengers report severe emotional distress manifesting in physical symptoms such as insomnia and dizziness.

Concerns Over Onboard Security

• The suit alleges that Royal Caribbean failed to adequately prevent sexual assaults and provide sufficient security and crew training.
• It references a previous incident in 2023 involving hidden cameras, highlighting a growing issue of sexual crimes aboard cruise ships.
• In 2023, the FBI reported 131 sex crimes on U.S. cruise ships, an increase from previous years.

Response from Royal Caribbean

• Royal Caribbean Group has not yet commented on the lawsuit.
• The company previously stated it reported Mirasol's crime immediately and terminated his employment, asserting a zero-tolerance policy for such behaviors.
• The plaintiffs seek punitive damages and a jury trial, adding to earlier legal actions against the company and Mirasol.