Patricia Barthel
Passenger Sexual Assault - MSC Opera
MSC Cruises - December 21, 2004
Patricia Barthel
Visitor Submission Date: May 26, 2006
Event Date: December 21, 2004
Bruise: Sexual Assault
Bruise Location:
Age: 41
Home Town: Florida
Cruise Line: MSC Cruises
Ship: MSC Opera
Details:
I took my sons, 16 & 19 years old on the MSC Opera for a 10 day Christmas cruise, figuring it was safe. We "SHARED" a cabin.
Where ever we go, my sons escort me, as I am a widow, and only have my sons to rely on. This was the night before we landed in Cartagena which was the 21st of December.
My sons escorted me to our cabin, and then left for the disco. Shortly after I arrived in my cabin, I recieved a phone call that there was a mistake on the bill and they needed to swipe my card to adjust the payment.
Stupid looking back but niave and did not want anyone to get introuble I said, " Ok, you can swipe my card." There was a knock on the door, and a Korean crew member was at the door. I handed him my card.
He went somewhere, then came back with my card, and knocked on my cabin door. I opened the door to sign the bill and he pushed the door open, came in and threw himself all over me, touching me and trying to kiss me while holding me. He was all over me. I was frantic, pushing him away and fighting him off. Once I fought him, he raced from the room.
That's when I called for help. I also told the doctor and Crew that I won't feel safe until we get back to port which was on the 28th.
The next day they said they called Italy and remove the pig off the ship in Columbia.
I called to speak with the Captian they said he was busy and I asked for security. They called for a doctor and 2 crew members. The doctor gave me medication for anxiety.
I was terrified for seven days, afraid to go the cabin alone, be in the cabin alone or to be on the ship at all.
On Christmas still sicken and upset I called my Father-in-law to let him know what happen and to call the ship to keep all staff away from me.
My sons said there were fights in the diso every night and security did nothing, they said they were there for terrorist. It was unbelieveable and disgusting, they were animals.
I have never been the same. I wrote a certified letter to the corporated office, they never responded.
I have a copy of the certified letters I sent to MSC Opera Vice President Mr. Hopkins in Fort Lauderdale and to Mr. Rick Sasso in New Jersey. I have a copy of the letter my travel agent sent. The cruise line told my travel agent they would be in touch with me, but never contacted me.
I have a copy of the Survey for the cruise &Suggestion that I filled out and my sons survey. I have a copy from the MV Opera Hospital when they treated me.
I work hard for my money and I paid to get assualted, they could care less.
Words can't express my gratitude to Cruise Bruise for helping me.
