A California CEO faces charges after allegedly assaulting a fellow passenger on a cruise ship over dancing bare feet.

In a troubling incident that reflects a rising trend of unruly behavior aboard cruise ships, Kenneth DeGiorgio, CEO of First American Financial Corp., is facing a federal assault charge following an altercation aboard Virgin Voyages' Resilient Lady. The confrontation reportedly stemmed from a fellow passenger, identified only by initials, dancing barefoot in a bar area. A complaint filed by the FBI reveals that DeGiorgio's wife had instructed the dancer to put on shoes, to which he reacted ungraciously, cursing and gesturing offensively. In a dramatic turn of events, footage from the ship's surveillance cameras reportedly captures DeGiorgio confronting the dancer, allegedly choking him while threatening, 'I am going to f---ing kill you.' Such an assertion raises questions about the subjective interpretations of threats, especially in public settings where alcohol may exacerbate tensions. The incident occurred about 70 nautical miles off the coast of Martinique, suggesting it fell under federal jurisdiction, with cases like these typically attracting considerable media attention due to the complexities of maritime law. Eventually, DeGiorgio was confined to his cabin by the ship's captain until docking in Puerto Rico, where he was met by FBI officials. DeGiorgio’s legal defense argues that his actions were justified, asserting he acted to protect his wife from harassment. This defense illuminates a complicated societal issue surrounding masculinity and the propensity to resort to violence when feeling protective or threatened. Reports of his spouse acknowledging that they bore some responsibility for provoking the incident add another layer to the narrative. DeGiorgio now faces a simple misdemeanor charge and could potentially face a year in prison if convicted. This case opens the floor for discussions about personal conduct aboard cruise ships, the implications of alcohol consumption, and legal jurisdiction in international waters. It showcases that the joy of a cruise can quickly devolve into chaotic scenes that do not align with the notion of leisure travel. This incident serves as a reminder that in shared environments—even aboard a ship—everyone upholds a collective responsibility to maintain decorum and respect.