Independence of the Seas Child Sex Abuse Scandal: Charges Filed Against Two Passengers

Introduction
A disturbing child sex abuse scandal has emerged aboard Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas, following the arrest of two Mexican nationals accused of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old boy during a Miami-bound voyage in March 2025. The Independence of the Seas child sex abuse scandal highlights critical concerns about onboard safety and the enforcement of child protection measures in maritime environments.

Details of the Incident
The alleged crimes occurred on March 20, 2025, in the ship’s sauna while the Independence of the Seas was en route to Miami. According to Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office arrest reports, Ricardo Daniel Mondragon Leal (37) and Jose Juan Prudencio Diaz (36), both residents of Mexico City, engaged in explicit acts involving the minor.

Prudencio Diaz is accused of exposing himself, masturbating in front of the victim, and forcing the boy to touch him. Mondragon Leal allegedly masturbated in front of the teenager, forced him to perform oral sex, and performed oral sex on the victim. The suspects were arrested on March 21, 2025, after the ship docked at PortMiami.

Response and Impact
Both men face multiple felony charges, including lewd and lascivious exhibition on a child and lewd and lascivious molestation. Mondragon Leal was additionally charged with child sexual battery, while Prudencio Diaz faces an extra count of engaging in sexual activity without disclosing his HIV status. The suspects are held without bond at Miami-Dade correctional facilities under immigration detainers.

Royal Caribbean has not issued a public statement but is cooperating with authorities. The incident has intensified scrutiny of cruise lines’ safety protocols, particularly in adult-only areas like saunas, and sparked calls for enhanced surveillance and child protection measures.