Dive Boat Captain Sentenced to Four Years for Deadly Fire
LOS ANGELES, CA (May 3, 2024) — Captain Jerry Boylan, the captain of the dive boat Conception, which tragically caught fire in 2019 resulting in the deaths of 33 passengers and one crew member, was sentenced to four years in prison. The sentencing took place at a federal court in Los Angeles, where Boylan, now 70, faced a possible maximum of 10 years.
The U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada expressed disappointment in the shorter sentence. “We wanted 10 years. We thought the appropriate sentence was 10 years in this case,” Estrada was quoted as saying.
The incident, which happened on September 2, 2019, near Santa Cruz Island, is one of the deadliest maritime disasters in recent U.S. history.
Prosecutors highlighted failures in Boylan’s duties as captain, accusing him of abandoning the ship without warning the sleeping passengers of the fire. Defense attorneys countered, stating Boylan escaped only after making a distress call and when his survival was in jeopardy.
The National Transportation Safety Board noted that none of the six crew members, including Boylan, were on watch as required when the fire started, likely allowing the fire to spread undetected.
Family members of the victims expressed mixed feelings about the sentencing. Susana Solano Rosas, who lost her family in the Conception boat accident tragedy, reportedly shared her disillusionment with the justice system, noting, “I’m very, very disappointed in the sentencing… for the loss of 34 lives.”
Boylan is set to begin his prison term on July 11, following the court’s order. This case has stirred emotions and calls for increased safety protocols within the maritime industry to prevent future tragedies.
If you or someone you know has been a victim of a maritime accident, RTM Law Firm is here to help. Our experienced boating accident attorneys in California can provide the guidance and representation needed to navigate the legal aftermath of such devastating events. Contact us today to ensure your rights are protected and to discuss your legal options.
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