Owner of Unlicensed Charter Boat Pleads Guilty for Fatal Capsizing
Unlicensed Boat Captain Faces 10 Years in Prison After Deadly Hudson River Accident
In 2022, a tragic accident on the Hudson River took the lives of a woman and her young nephew. Now, the man responsible, Richard Cruz, 32, is facing up to 10 years in prison after admitting to misconduct and neglect.
The Incident
On July 12, 2022, Cruz operated a speedboat named Stimulus Money on the Hudson River with 13 people aboard. Unfortunately, this was more than the boat’s maximum capacity. Even though there were warnings of strong winds and rough waters that day, Cruz continued the trip at high speed. The boat lost control and flipped over, throwing all 13 passengers into the river.
While 11 people were rescued by the New York Police Department (NYPD), the Fire Department of New York (FDNY), and other boats in the area, a 48-year-old woman and her 7-year-old nephew were found trapped under the overturned boat. Rescuers found them 25 minutes later, but it was too late. Both were declared dead due to drowning.
Cruz’s Misconduct
Investigators found that Cruz had purchased the boat just three months before the accident. He was using it for paid tours without having the proper licenses. Cruz did not have the required United States Coast Guard (USCG) certification or a safety inspection, which are necessary for operating commercial boats with paying customers.
Legal Consequences
Cruz recently pleaded guilty to misconduct and neglect as a ship operator, admitting that his actions led to the deaths of the two victims. His sentencing is scheduled for January next year, where he could receive up to 10 years in prison.
“This prosecution sends a message to all boat operators,” said Damian Williams, the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York. “Ignoring safety rules and regulations puts lives at risk and will not go unpunished.”
The Importance of Boat Safety
This tragic event highlights the importance of following boating safety rules. Operating without a license and ignoring warnings can have deadly consequences. Regulations from the USCG are designed to protect passengers, and violations can result in serious legal consequences.
