- The captain of the Conception dive boat, was indicted on Tuesday on 34 counts of seaman’s manslaughter.
- The captain was responsible for the boat to go on flames killing 34 people.
- The flames might have been sparked by cellphones and batteries left charging overnight.
- Three safety violations were cited in the indictment.
- They are failing to have a night watch or roving patrol, failing to conduct sufficient fire drills, and failing to conduct sufficient crew training.
A recently published article in CNN reveals that the dive boat captain indicted on multiple counts of manslaughter in connection with fire that left 34 dead. Amir Vera and Sarah Moon elaborate on the verdict for CNN.
What does the jury say?
A federal grand jury alleges Jerry Nehl Boylan, 67, “was responsible for the safety and security of the vessel, its crew, and its passengers,” according to a statement from US Attorney Nick Hanna’s office.
What does the indictment allege?
The indictment alleges that Boylan caused the deaths of 34 people “by his misconduct, negligence, and inattention to his duties.”
Details of the ship and passengers
The Conception had 33 passengers and six crew members on board, prosecutors said in the statement.
The 75-foot dive boat went up in flames early September 2, 2019, while anchored near Santa Cruz Island, about 20 miles off the California coast near Santa Barbara.
Five crew members, including Boylan, were able to escape, while 33 passengers and one crew member who had been sleeping below deck died.
Also read 25 Bodies Spotted and 9 missing After a Boat Fire Off Santa Cruz Island
Penalty of 10 years in federal prison
Each charge of seaman’s manslaughter carries a statutory maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison, the statement said, adding that Boylan is expected to surrender to federal authorities in the coming weeks.
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Source: CNN
