Midshipman-Y vs. Maersk Line, Limited — Cadet Sexual Harassment Lawsuit

The complaint alleged that Maersk, owner and operator of U.S.-flag commercial cargo vessels, violated the Jones Act, General Maritime Law, and New York state anti-discrimination laws by failing to adequately protect the Cadet-Midshipman who proceeded under the moniker “Midshipman-Y” from extreme sexual harassment and repeated instances of unwanted touching while she worked aboard Maersk’s M/V Alliance Fairfax while participating in the U. S. Merchant Marine Academy's "Sea Year" program.

The complaints further alleged that, despite being aware of the history of sexual assault and harassment on its ships, Maersk failed to institute adequate safety and prevention measures. The complaint alleged that as a result, Midshipman-Y was subjected to extreme sexual harassment during her Sea Year training and was forced to request an emergency evacuation from the vessel.

• November 21, 2022: Midshipman Y and Maersk Line, Limited reached a confidential agreement resolving her litigation against the company.
• June 14, 2022: Complaint filed by Justice4Mariners and Sanford Heisler Sharp and against Maersk Line, Limited on behalf of Hope Hicks alleging violations of the Jones Act, General Maritime Law, and anti-discrimination laws.

• Tradewinds: Maersk Line and USMMA student resolve second sexual misconduct at sea lawsuit
• CNN: Investigative Report Featuring an Interview with Midshipman-Y.
• Newsday: Mariner Accused of Sexually Harassing Teen USMMA Cadet during Sea Year Banned from Industry
• Tradewinds: Seafarer surrenders licence over sexual harassment allegations on Maersk ship:
• The Washington Post: Cadets suing shipping company, alleging rape and harassment at sea
• CNN: Two students sue shipping giant Maersk, alleging sexual assault and harassment