Dozen passengers sue Royal Caribbean over hidden cameras in rooms

In a disturbing case that has shaken the cruise industry, a dozen passengers are suing Royal Caribbean following the conviction of Arvin Joseph Mirasol, a former cabin attendant who installed hidden cameras in passengers' rooms aboard the Symphony of the Seas cruise ship. Mirasol's actions reportedly took place over several months, between December 2023 and February 2024, during which time he installed cameras in at least 12 cabins and shared footage on the internet. Some of the victims included children as young as two years old, raising serious concerns about the protections in place for families on cruise lines. The legal action highlights the substantial psychological distress caused to the passengers, many of whom now suffer from stress disorders and physical pain as a result of Mirasol’s invasions of privacy. The plaintiffs, who have initiated a class action lawsuit, estimate that as many as 1,000 individuals might unknowingly be affected. They accuse Royal Caribbean of negligence by failing to implement sufficient measures to prevent such heinous acts by their employees, thereby allowing a culture where guest safety is compromised. Mirasol's guilty plea in August to producing child sexual abuse material resulted in a 30-year prison sentence. The severity of this case is not only contained to Mirasol's actions but also extends to the company’s apparent inability to provide a safe environment for their guests. Royal Caribbean has framed its response to these allegations around a 'zero tolerance' policy, claiming they have terminated Mirasol’s employment and are cooperating fully with ongoing investigations. This harrowing incident and the subsequent lawsuits have raised awareness about potential lapses in safety and privacy regulations on cruise ships. The plaintiffs seek to not only obtain punitive damages for the trauma they endured but also to ensure the cruise line takes compelling action to prevent future occurrences. With investigations underway, further ramifications for both Mirasol and Royal Caribbean could unfold as legal proceedings develop against the company for their apparent negligence in safeguarding their passengers.