Some people will go to great lengths for an Alaskan cruise. For one man, this desire allegedly led to serious legal trouble. Enrico Ronquillo, a 37-year-old from the Philippines living in the US, faces multiple federal charges. He is accused of stealing an American’s identity to board an Alaskan cruise earlier this year.
Identity Theft for a Cruise
According to a June 2025 press release from the US Attorney’s Office for Alaska, Ronquillo allegedly used fake documents. These included a California driver’s license and a birth certificate. He impersonated the victim to board a cruise ship from 11th to 14th May 2025. Additionally, he submitted a fraudulent IRS Form W-9, suggesting the impersonation went beyond just cruise access.
Serious Charges and Potential Consequences
Ronquillo faces several charges. These include false impersonation of a US citizen, making and using a false document, and two counts of aggravated identity theft. If convicted, he could face a minimum of two years in prison for each identity theft charge. He also risks up to five more years and a $250,000 fine for the other charges.
How Was the Impersonation Discovered?
Authorities have not disclosed which cruise line was involved or how the impersonation was detected. The cruise line might have noticed inconsistencies during ID checks. Alternatively, digital screening systems could have flagged the documents. While international travellers usually board Alaskan cruises with valid documents, Ronquillo’s motives and visa status remain unclear.
Alaska Cruise Arrests on the Rise
This case is part of a growing trend of cruise-related arrests in Alaska. Law enforcement collaborates with federal agencies at busy cruise ports, which are legal entry points. Just days before Ronquillo’s case, Karen Bryan was arrested in Ketchikan. She was flagged due to an outstanding warrant from Wyoming for embezzling church funds.
Security Measures at Cruise Ports
Ketchikan, with its high cruise traffic, is a hotspot for warrant checks. Security checkpoints use facial recognition and ID scanning systems regularly. These measures help identify individuals with outstanding legal issues, ensuring safety and compliance.
Global Trend of Cruise Crime
The recent identity theft and embezzlement cases are part of a larger global pattern. Cruise-related arrests are becoming more common worldwide. As cruise travel continues to grow, so does the need for stringent security measures. This ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for all holidaygoers.
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