MSC World America lifeguard arrested after alleged encounters with minor
Miami-Dade authorities charged a crew member after the ship returned to PortMiami on August 22.
Rafael Cayetano Blanco, a 38-year-old lifeguard from Guatemala working aboard MSC World America, was arrested by the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office after the cruise ship returned to PortMiami on Saturday, August 22.
An arrest affidavit filed in Miami-Dade County states that Blanco met a 17-year-old passenger aboard the ship on August 16 and exchanged phone numbers with the minor. Authorities alleged that sexual activity later occurred in Blanco’s cabin and that the two had sex there again on August 19. According to the arrest report, Blanco admitted to both encounters.
Blanco was charged with unlawful sexual activity with a minor. Jail records indicated that he remained in custody on an immigration hold following his arrest.
MSC said it contacted the appropriate law enforcement authorities after learning of an alleged criminal act and breach of conduct involving a crew member. The cruise line also said it supported the investigation, assisted the guest and dismissed the employee.