Newman’s Fateful Voyage: Kansas Man Charged with Cruel Murder

Eric Newman, 53, a Topeka, Kansas man, has been charged with the inhumane murder of Tamara Tucker, 50, of Lawson, Missouri.

Tucker met her ghastly demise on January 19, 2018, while the two were aboard the Carnival Elation, a foreign vessel registered in Panama, on a voyage that had both a scheduled departure from and arrival in Jacksonville, Florida.

The indictment alleges that during the voyage, Newman is alleged to have brutally killed Tucker. Newman appeared in court earlier today for his initial appearance, where he was charged with murder in the second degree.

The initial appearance was held before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ross A. Walters. Newman will have a detention hearing scheduled for September 12.

Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski, U.S. Attorney Stephen R. McAllister, and Special Agent in Charge Charles P. Spencer of the FBI Jacksonville, Florida Field Office made the announcement. The investigation was conducted by the FBI Jacksonville Field Office with the assistance of the FBI Topeka Field Office.

The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney Rami S. Badawy of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Christine E. Kenney of the District of Kansas. An indictment is merely an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

It is alleged that Newman was travelling on board the Carnival Elation with Tamara Tucker, where he is alleged to have taken her life. The case has sent shockwaves through the community, and the charges against Newman are a significant step towards seeking justice for Tucker’s loved ones.