A new lawsuit has been filed against Royal Caribbean by a group of 12 guests, all U.S. citizens, who are seeking justice following a disturbing incident involving hidden cameras aboard the cruise line’s Symphony of the Seas. The case centers around a former crew member, Filipino stateroom attendant Arvin Joseph Mirasol, who was convicted earlier this year for secretly recording passengers in private spaces.
The lawsuit, filed by Aronfeld Trial Lawyers in Miami, comes after Mirasol was sentenced to 30 years in prison for his crimes, which included video voyeurism and the creation of child abuse material. Mirasol, who worked on the ship between December 1, 2023, and February 26, 2024, was arrested after an investigation revealed he had placed hidden cameras in several bathrooms on the ship, capturing footage of unsuspecting guests.
Attorney Spencer Aronfeld, representing the plaintiffs, expressed deep concern over the privacy violations, stating that many of the victims are still unaware if and how their images have been circulated. The lawsuit aims to hold Royal Caribbean accountable for failing to prevent such incidents and seeks greater accountability for the cruise line’s screening procedures.
“This is a grave violation of privacy, especially considering that some of the victims in this case are children,” said Aronfeld. “Once these images are online, they are out there forever. We are seeking justice for the victims and hoping that this lawsuit will push Royal Caribbean and other cruise lines to implement stronger measures to prevent such incidents in the future.”
The initial class-action lawsuit was filed by a Jane Doe plaintiff and her two daughters, highlighting the potential for many more victims to be involved. The lawsuit raises critical concerns about the cruise industry’s safety protocols, particularly regarding employee screening and surveillance policies. Aronfeld further stated that he hoped this case would send a strong message to the industry, urging cruise lines to take proactive steps in preventing similar violations.
In response to the incident, Royal Caribbean issued a statement saying, “We have zero tolerance for this unacceptable behavior. Upon learning of the incident, we immediately reported it to law enforcement and terminated the crew member.” However, despite the company’s swift response in terminating Mirasol’s employment, the plaintiffs argue that Royal Caribbean must do more to ensure the safety and privacy of its passengers.
This case has prompted renewed discussions about the importance of monitoring crew member activities and enhancing safety measures on cruise ships. The plaintiffs are determined to hold Royal Caribbean accountable and ensure that victims receive justice for the violation of their privacy during their vacation experience.
