Judge hears arguments for restitution to families of 34 people killed in 2019 scuba boat fire

Associated Press

LOS ANGELES (AP) — A federal judge has heard arguments over whether a boat captain should pay restitution to the families of 34 people killed in a California scuba dive boat fire in 2019, with prosecutors seeking reimbursement for funeral expenses and more. Thursday’s hearing in Los Angeles comes nearly five years after the Sept. 2, 2019, tragedy off the central California coast. Jerry Boylan’s criminal negligence as captain of the Conception led to the deadliest maritime disaster in recent U.S. history. Boylan was convicted of one count of what’s colloquially known as seaman’s manslaughter. His appeal is ongoing. A final decision on restitution is expected at the next hearing July 29.