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NewsTelemundo 51 Miami – MainJuly 15, 2026United States

Former Ship Captain Pleads Guilty to Drugging and Assaulting Merchant Marine Cadet

John Merrone, a 53-year-old former cargo ship captain, pleaded guilty in federal court to drugging and sexually assaulting a 21-year-old cadet during a 2019 training voyage. The incident occurred during the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy's 'Sea Year' program, leading to a potential life sentence for the defendant.

sexual assaultmaritime lawUS Merchant Marine Academycriminal justiceSea Year program
Read the full story at Telemundo 51 Miami – Main

Why It Matters

The case highlights ongoing safety concerns within the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy's '' training program, which has faced multiple suspensions and legislative reforms due to reports of sexual assault and harassment at sea.

Key Facts

  • John Merrone pleaded guilty to five charges, including aggravated sexual abuse and abusive sexual contact.
  • The incident occurred in 2019 aboard the cargo ship 'Liberty Glory' while the victim was participating in the 'Sea Year' training program.
  • Merrone faces a maximum penalty of life in prison, with federal sentencing guidelines suggesting 15 to 19 years.
  • Sentencing is scheduled for December 22.
  • The victim was drugged with an intoxicating substance before the assault occurred.
  • The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy previously suspended the 'Sea Year' program in 2016 and 2021 due to reports of sexual assault and harassment.
  • The 'Safer Seas Act' was enacted by Congress to strengthen sexual assault reporting requirements on U.S.-flagged commercial vessels.
  • The Academy has implemented new safety protocols, including providing satellite phones to cadets and conducting confidential post-voyage interviews.

Who's Mentioned

personRyan Melogy“Attorney for the victim.”personRamon E. Reyes Jr.“Federal judge presiding over the case.”personJohn Merrone“Former ship captain who pleaded guilty to sexual assault.”personJane Doe“The victim and cadet at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy.”personJoseph Nocella Jr.“Federal prosecutor.”organizationU.S. Merchant Marine Academy“Federal service academy that operates the 'Sea Year' program.”