A bizarre incident unfolded aboard Royal Caribbean’s Rhapsody of the Seas when a cruise passenger jumps overboard near the Port of San Juan in Puerto Rico, allegedly to avoid paying more than $16,000 in gambling debt to the cruise line.
The passenger, identified as Jey Gonzalez-Diaz, now faces serious federal charges after authorities say he tried to escape U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) inspection by leaping into the water.
The Incident
According to a criminal complaint reported by CBS News, the incident happened on Sunday, August 31, as the ship was disembarking passengers around 9:15 a.m. The cruise passenger reportedly jumped into the water just as CBP officials were conducting routine inspections on arriving guests.
Surveillance footage shows that Gonzalez-Diaz was picked up by someone on a jet ski after going overboard. He made it to shore but did not get far.
Arrest and Discovery
CBP officers tracked Gonzalez-Diaz down near the Puerto Rico Capitol Building, where he was arrested. When officers searched him, they discovered:
- $14,600 in cash
- Two mobile phones
- Five forms of identification
Authorities say the man admitted to jumping overboard because he “did not want to report the currency” to CBP and believed he would be taxed on the money he was carrying.
Gambling Debt Details
Royal Caribbean confirmed to investigators that the passenger had been gambling heavily onboard. The cruise line reported that he owed $16,710.24 in unpaid gambling debt and was traveling under the name Jeremy Diaz.
The debt, combined with the large amount of cash he was carrying, likely motivated his attempt to evade inspection and reporting requirements.
Federal Charges and Possible Penalties
Gonzalez-Diaz is now facing federal charges for failing to report monetary instruments over $10,000 when reentering the United States. The crime carries penalties of:
- A fine of up to $250,000
- Up to five years in prison
- Or both
After being taken into custody, Gonzalez-Diaz was released on bail while awaiting trial.
Cruise Line and CBP Response
Royal Caribbean has not released additional details beyond confirming the gambling debt. CBP reminded travelers that federal law requires anyone entering the United States with more than $10,000 in currency or monetary instruments to report it.
Failure to do so can result in seizure of the funds and criminal prosecution, as seen in this case.
Why This Matters
The case highlights the risks passengers face when attempting to avoid federal reporting requirements. Gambling debts on cruises can add up quickly, and failure to pay can lead to serious legal consequences.
It also underscores the importance of understanding CBP rules when traveling internationally. Carrying cash is legal — but failing to declare amounts over $10,000 is a crime.
Conclusion
This dramatic case — where a cruise passenger jumps overboard to avoid debt — is a reminder that actions taken in panic can lead to far worse consequences. Gonzalez-Diaz now faces a federal trial, significant fines, and the possibility of prison time.
Travelers are advised to gamble responsibly, declare their cash when reentering the U.S., and resolve disputes legally rather than resorting to extreme measures.
