Louie Ison Mangampat, Sexual Assault and Hate Crime, Virgin Islands 2020
A shocking crime has shaken the cruise ship industry, as a federal grand jury in the Virgin Islands has returned a superseding indictment against Louie Ison Mangampat, 37, of the Philippines. The indictment charges Mangampat with one count of aggravated sexual abuse and one count of committing a hate crime.
The alleged crime took place in September 2019 on board a Celebrity cruise ship. Mangampat is accused of sexually assaulting a crew member during the voyage. The superseding indictment adds the hate crime offense to the original grand jury indictment previously returned on November 7, 2019.
Mangampat faces a maximum sentence of up to life in prison and a maximum $250,000 fine under federal law. The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Virgin Islands Police Department.
Assistant United States Attorney Everard E. Potter is prosecuting the case. United States Attorney Gretchen Shappert reminded the public that an indictment is merely a formal charging document and is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The Virgin Islands community is reeling from the news of this heinous crime. The alleged victim and their family are receiving support from authorities and local organizations.
Mangampat's case is a stark reminder of the importance of safety and respect on board cruise ships. The incident has sparked a renewed focus on ensuring the well-being of crew members and passengers alike.
As this case unfolds, the public will be kept informed of any developments. In the meantime, Mangampat remains a defendant in this serious matter.
Key Facts
- State: Virgin Islands
- Category: Sex Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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