Massachusetts Woman Sues Carnival Cruise Line After Assault by Fellow Passenger on Carnival Paradise
Jerita Bolding, a Massachusetts resident, has filed a maritime personal injury lawsuit in the Southern District of Florida against Carnival Corporation and a fellow cruise passenger, Deleisha Roberson. The complaint, filed under Case No. 1:25-cv-25492-PCH, alleges that Bolding was physically assaulted aboard the Carnival Paradise following a confrontation in a ship corridor. The lawsuit claims Carnival failed to provide adequate security, properly supervise intoxicated guests, or intervene in time to prevent the violent incident.
Passenger Physically Assaulted After Elevator Dispute on Carnival Paradise
According to the complaint, the assault occurred on November 24, 2024, while Bolding and her husband were exiting the elevator on Deck 10 of the Carnival Paradise. The couple was confronted by an agitated family who accused Bolding’s husband of striking a child. In the midst of the argument, another passenger—identified as Deleisha Roberson—allegedly ran up and struck Bolding multiple times in the face and head without warning.
The lawsuit alleges that Carnival security failed to arrive promptly and intervene in a timely manner, leaving Bolding vulnerable to the attack. She sustained head trauma, facial bruising, and other injuries that required medical attention.
Carnival Accused of Failing to Prevent Passenger-on-Passenger Violence Through Security Lapses
Bolding claims that Carnival was negligent in failing to provide adequate security, surveillance, or staff presence in high-risk areas such as corridors, especially during evening hours when alcohol-fueled incidents are more likely to occur. The complaint argues that Carnival was aware of the heightened risk of violence aboard its vessels, particularly due to the company’s marketing as the “Fun Ship” and its revenue-heavy alcohol sales.
The complaint references the Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act of 2010, which requires cruise lines to monitor incidents of passenger assault and install onboard surveillance to deter and document crimes. Bolding alleges that Carnival either failed to meet these requirements or failed to respond appropriately when violence occurred.
Lawsuit Brings Claims for Negligent Security and Assault Aboard Cruise Ship
The complaint brings two counts: one for negligent security against Carnival Corporation and one for common law assault and battery against Deleisha Roberson. The negligent security claim alleges that Carnival:
- Failed to prevent intoxicated passengers from threatening or harming others
- Lacked adequate security personnel and surveillance near passenger cabins
- Failed to monitor and intervene in passenger confrontations
- Did not train or deploy staff to de-escalate volatile situations
- Ignored known risks of passenger-on-passenger violence during evening hours near common areas like elevators and casinos
Plaintiff Seeks Damages for Head Injury, Emotional Distress, and Lasting Impairment
As a result of the alleged assault, Bolding claims she suffered physical and emotional injuries including head trauma, ringing in the ears, persistent headaches, and facial contusions. The complaint states she experienced loss of enjoyment of life, mental anguish, and physical disability. These damages are claimed to be permanent or continuing in nature, and the lawsuit seeks compensation for past and future medical treatment, lost wages, and diminished capacity for life activities.
The plaintiff is requesting a jury trial and full damages under maritime and Florida law.
Injured in an Assault Aboard a Cruise Ship? Contact a Maritime Personal Injury Lawyer
Cruise lines have a duty to protect passengers from foreseeable harm—including assaults by other passengers—especially when incidents stem from poor security, lack of supervision, or overservice of alcohol. If you were assaulted while aboard a cruise ship and believe the cruise line failed to keep you safe, you may have grounds for a maritime negligence claim.
Contact us now to speak with a cruise ship assault and negligent security lawyer.
Disclaimer: Our firm does not represent the plaintiff in this case and is not involved in the litigation. The information provided is a summary of allegations based on publicly available court filings. We make no representations about the truth of these allegations, are not commenting on the merits of the case, and are not predicting any outcome.
