Home / Crime and Justice / Florida Attorney Accused of Attacking Elderly Passenger on Cruise
Florida Attorney Accused of Attacking Elderly Passenger on Cruise
24 Nov, 2025
Summary
- Attorney Phillip Ortiz faces felony battery charges for allegedly attacking an elderly passenger.
- The alleged altercation occurred on a Norwegian Cruise Line ship on November 22, 2025.
- Ortiz reportedly attacked the victim after a verbal dispute over restricted access.
A Florida attorney, Phillip Ortiz, 38, is now facing felony charges for allegedly assaulting an elderly passenger aboard the Norwegian Encore cruise ship. The incident, which took place on November 22, 2025, began as a verbal dispute over restricted hallway access. According to an arrest affidavit, Ortiz allegedly initiated the physical confrontation, pushing the 67-year-old victim and later charging at him, causing the victim to fall and lose consciousness.
Witness statements and CCTV footage reportedly corroborate the victim's account of the events. Ortiz is accused of not rendering aid, while other passengers and ship personnel intervened, with some administering CPR. Ortiz was subsequently arrested by the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office and is currently being held at a local correctional facility. His attorney has entered a plea of not guilty on his behalf.
Ortiz's legal representative claims the elderly passenger was the aggressor, was intoxicated, and assaulted Ortiz's wife. The defense also asserts self-defense and criticizes Norwegian Cruise Line for failing to ensure the safety of Ortiz and his family. Norwegian Cruise Line has confirmed the arrest, stating they have zero tolerance for violence and prioritize guest safety.
