Florida Lawyer Accused of Violent Assault on Cruise Ship
A 38-year-old lawyer from Florida, Phillip Ortiz, was taken into custody following a disturbing incident aboard the Norwegian Encore cruise ship in Miami. The altercation, which resulted in the hospitalisation of a 67-year-old man, has raised serious questions about passenger safety and conduct at sea.
The Alleged Altercation and Its Aftermath
The situation reportedly began when Phillip Ortiz attempted to access a restricted area of the vessel. A senior passenger, aged 67, intervened, which allegedly led to a physical confrontation. Ortiz is accused of pushing and tripping the elderly gentleman, causing him to fall, strike his head, and lose consciousness. Shockingly, it is claimed that Ortiz then left the scene without offering any assistance to the injured man.
Other passengers aboard the ship came to the victim's aid, performing CPR before the 67-year-old was transported to a nearby hospital for urgent medical treatment. The swift action of these individuals was crucial in managing the emergency situation until professional medical help could be secured.
Legal Proceedings and Charges
Phillip Ortiz was initially charged with the more serious offence of aggravated battery on a person over 65. However, during a subsequent court hearing, a judge decided to downgrade the charge to battery on an elderly person. The judge granted Ortiz bond but issued a strict no-contact order, prohibiting any communication with the victim as the legal process continues.
The incident, which occurred on Wednesday 26 November 2025, serves as a stark reminder of the legal and personal consequences of violent behaviour, even in the seemingly relaxed environment of a holiday cruise.
