Update: July 12, 2006
Witness Josh Askin, one of the four men to be last seen with George Allen Smith, one who said they 'tucked George into bed, then left", has filed a civil suit against Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines (RCCL), alleging invasion of privacy, causing emotional distress, false imprisonment and breach of contract.
The suit is asking for a minimum of $15,000 in damages. The suit was filed in Miami, Florida. This is the third suit filed against RCCL related to this case, so far.
Update: August 4, 2006
In a routine move in court, lawyers for Royal Caribbean Cruise Inc, filed a motion to dismiss, in the civil lawsuit against the cruise line, brought by the family of George Allen Smith IV.
The cruise line calls the lawsuit false and frivolous allegations, saying they were thanked by the FBI for their assistance in the case.
The family alleges the cruise line delayed reporting the incident to the FBI, didn't preserve the crime scene, deliberately portrayed the incident as an accident.
Update: October 16, 2006
Judge Jon I. Gordon granted a motion today to dismiss the lawsuit filed by the family of George Allen Smith IV, faulting Royal Caribbean International its handling of the case.
"It's a setback, of course, but it's not the end," maritime lawyer Brett Rivkind told Greenwich Time Thursday. "The Smith family isn't discouraged. Whether the Smith family won or lost, the issue is going to be decided in an appellate court."
Update: January 4, 2007
Jennifer Hagel Smith gets a settlement from Royal Caribbean Cruise International for ONE MILLION dollars. The money will be paid to the estate of George Allen Smith IV. The courts still have to approve the settlement. The investigation into her husband's death continues. But, in the settlement RCCI has said they will show the widow all the evidence they have in the case. Royal Caribbean denies any wrongdoing and does not admit to any liability.
Update: May 2, 2008
Jennifer Hagel Smith, the administrator of Smith's estate, reached an agreement in June 2006 with the Royal Caribbean for $1.08 million dollars. The deal had been contested by Smith's parents.
On Friday, Probate Judge David Hopper approved the settlement, ruling that it was reasonable and in the best interest of the estate.
George Allen Smith IV
Missing Passenger On Cruise Ship
Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines - July 5, 2005
