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Kenneth DeGiorgio, CEO of First American Financial Corp., faces a federal assault charge after an altercation on a Virgin Voyages cruise ship. The incident occurred early Monday (March 31) in international waters aboard the Resilient Lady, according to a federal criminal complaint.
Authorities allege that DeGiorgio choked a fellow passenger, identified by the initials M.A., following an incident involving DeGiorgio's wife, Nichol. The complaint states that M.A. was dancing barefoot at the ship's On The Rocks bar when Nichol DeGiorgio asked him to put on shoes. M.A. allegedly responded by cursing and making an obscene gesture.
Security footage reportedly shows DeGiorgio approaching M.A. and choking him. The victim claimed DeGiorgio used significant force, making him feel as though his throat would be ripped out. During the altercation, DeGiorgio allegedly threatened to kill M.A.
DeGiorgio was confined to his cabin until the ship docked in San Juan, Puerto Rico, where authorities met the vessel on Tuesday (April 1). Nichol DeGiorgio later told authorities she regretted asking M.A. to put on shoes and confirmed he did not touch her.
DeGiorgio's legal team stated he was defending his wife and anticipates being cleared of any wrongdoing.