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The shocking Anna Kepner Killing case took another dramatic turn this week after the teenage stepbrother accused of murdering the 18-year-old aboard a Caribbean cruise ship was allowed to remain free pending trial. Federal prosecutors argued that 16-year-old Timothy Hudson posed a danger to others and should be detained immediately. A federal judge declined to revoke his release while seeking more information about juvenile detention options near the family’s Florida home.

The case has drawn national attention since Anna Kepner was found dead aboard the Carnival Horizon in November 2025. Prosecutors allege Hudson raped and killed the Florida teen before hiding her body underneath a bed inside their shared cabin.

Authorities say the disturbing events unfolded while the ship was returning from Mexico to Miami.

Judge Declines Detention Request for Anna Kepner Killing

During a hearing in Miami federal court, prosecutors urged Judge Edwin Torres to place Hudson in custody before his September trial date. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alejandra Lopez argued that the legal circumstances surrounding the case had changed after Hudson agreed to be tried as an adult in federal court.

According to prosecutors, Hudson had initially been released under provisions of the Juvenile Delinquency Act after his February arrest. However, once he agreed to adult prosecution, they argued that the stricter standards of the federal Bail Reform Act should apply.

Lopez described the accusations as “the most serious, egregious, and violative crimes one person can inflict upon another,” according to court filings.

The prosecution also raised concerns about Hudson’s current living arrangement, noting that he resides in a home with other minors.

Judge Torres, however, stopped short of ordering immediate detention. Instead, he said he wanted additional information regarding possible juvenile housing facilities near Hernando County, Florida, where Hudson’s relatives are located.

The judge is expected to revisit the matter before trial.

Investigators Describe Anna Kepner Killing Aboard the Carnival Horizon

Federal investigators believe Anna Kepner was killed inside a cabin aboard the Carnival Horizon during the overnight hours of November 6 into November 7.

The cruise ship, operated by Carnival Cruise Line, can accommodate nearly 5,000 passengers.

According to reports, Anna had gone to bed early after complaining that her braces were hurting. Family members were reportedly elsewhere on the ship while she remained alone in the cabin with Hudson.