A 16-year-old boy has pleaded not guilty to charges of first-degree murder and aggravated sexual abuse in connection with the death of his stepsister during a cruise ship voyage.

The teen, identified by his initials T.H., is being prosecuted as an adult in the case involving the death of Anna Kepner. Court records show the case was transferred from juvenile to adult court as proceedings move forward.

Prosecutors have requested that the accused remain in custody as the case progresses, expressing concerns about public safety if he were released pending trial. The specific circumstances of the alleged incident aboard the cruise ship have not been detailed in court filings.

The charges against the teenager include first-degree murder and aggravated sexual abuse, both serious felonies that carry significant potential sentences under adult prosecution. The case represents a transfer from the juvenile justice system to adult court, indicating the severity of the alleged crimes.

No additional details about the cruise ship incident, including the vessel's location or timeline of events, have been released by authorities at this time. The case is expected to proceed through the adult criminal justice system with the defendant's not guilty plea now entered.