A Royal Caribbean cruise passenger is facing federal charges after allegedly jumping overboard in Puerto Rico in what prosecutors say was an attempt to escape paying more than $16,000 in gambling debts.
Jump from Rhapsody of the Seas
The incident happened on Sunday as the Rhapsody of the Seas was docking in San Juan. According to a criminal complaint filed in the U.S. District Court for Puerto Rico, 33-year-old Jey Xander Omar Gonzalez-Diaz leapt into the water carrying thousands of dollars in cash.
Surveillance cameras captured the moment he plunged into the harbor before being picked up by people on jet skis who helped him to shore.
The ship had departed San Juan on August 31 and visited several islands, including Barbados, before returning on September 7.
Arrest and Cash Discovery
U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers later detained Gonzalez-Diaz near the Puerto Rico Capitol Building. He was found carrying $14,600 in cash, two phones, five IDs, and a handbag, officials said.
Court documents allege Gonzalez-Diaz owed Royal Caribbean $16,710.24, mostly from casino and gaming expenses while on board.
When questioned, Gonzalez-Diaz reportedly told investigators he jumped because he “did not want to report the currency in his possession” and believed he would be taxed if he declared it.
Federal Charge
He has been charged with failing to report transporting more than $10,000 in cash into the U.S.—a federal crime that carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
Authorities also pointed out that his onboard account was booked under the name “Jeremy Diaz.”
Royal Caribbean said in a statement that it is cooperating with investigators but declined to provide further comment, citing the ongoing case.
Gonzalez-Diaz has been released on bail and is due back in court.
