Kalamazoo, MI – A 19-year-old Michigan man was sentenced to eight months in federal prison after admitting to sending a false bomb threat targeting a Carnival cruise ship, all because he was upset that his girlfriend’s family went on vacation and left him behind to watch their pets.
Joshua Lowe, who had been living with his girlfriend’s family, was sentenced this week in federal court in Kalamazoo, after pleading guilty to sending a hoax bomb threat via email in January 2024.
What Happened?
Lowe sent an email to Carnival Cruise Lines stating:
“Hey, I think someone might have a bomb on your Sunrise cruise ship.”
At the time, the Carnival Sunrise had just left Miami, Florida, en route to Jamaica, with Lowe’s girlfriend and her family onboard. Feeling bitter over being left at home to care for the family’s pets, Lowe admitted to sending the email out of frustration.
The false bomb threat triggered a full-scale emergency response:
- Over 1,000 rooms were searched by the ship’s crew.
- The U.S. Coast Guard and Jamaican Marine Police were called in to assist.
- The ship was escorted to port as a precaution.
How Was He Caught?
Federal investigators from the FBI quickly traced the email to Lowe, who confessed during questioning. According to Assistant U.S. Attorney Nils Kessler, Lowe admitted he was simply angry and wanted to disrupt the trip.
“Lowe admitted he sent the message because he was upset that the family went on the cruise while leaving him behind to care for their pets,” said Kessler.
Lowe’s Apology and Sentencing
Lowe submitted a handwritten letter of apology to U.S. District Judge Paul Maloney, saying:
“This is all my fault and I take full responsibility.”
Although he could have faced up to five years in prison, the judge sentenced him to eight months, acknowledging his remorse but emphasizing the seriousness of the crime.
Official Reactions
Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan, issued a strong warning:
“Bomb threats are not a laughing matter and are extremely irresponsible. When individuals make false hoax threats, they divert critical law enforcement resources and spread unnecessary fear.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kessler added:
“Anyone making a bomb threat should expect to be taken at his word. Fortunately, this particular hoax did not result in physical injury.”