Newscenter reported that Jerry Boylan, the captain of the ill-fated dive boat Conception, has been charged under a statute dating back to the early 1800s. The families of the 34 victims, who lost their lives in the tragic incident, spoke about their feelings of vindication on the steps of the courthouse in downtown LA. While they are relieved that Boylan has been convicted of misconduct and neglect of the ship, they acknowledge that it does not bring their loved ones back. They hope that this case will serve as an example and lead to improved safety measures in the maritime industry to prevent such tragedies in the future.
The Labor Day weekend of 2019 will always be remembered as the country’s greatest maritime disaster in recent history. Prosecutors highlighted that Boylan neglected his duties as a captain, failing to have a roving patrol and adequately train his staff on firefighting procedures. Furthermore, he was the first to abandon the ship and did not instruct other passengers to save themselves. The families of the victims are now advocating for stricter federal maritime regulations to ensure safety in the industry.
They believe that these laws, along with additional regulations proposed to the Coast Guard, will prevent similar incidents from happening again. Sadly, they know that their loved ones will never return, and they will forever cherish their memories..
