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A bizarre scene unfolded at the Port of San Juan on September 7 when Jey González-Díaz leapt off Royal Caribbean’s Rhapsody of the Seas in a desperate attempt to avoid paying a hefty gambling debt.
According to a criminal complaint obtained by PEOPLE, González-Díaz owed the cruise line more than $16,000, mostly tied to casino expenses. As guests were disembarking around 9 a.m., he allegedly jumped into the water with a backpack in tow. Two passing jet skis scooped him up and carried him ashore, where he was immediately detained by Customs and Border Protection officers.
Authorities say González-Díaz was carrying $14,600 in cash, multiple IDs, two phones, and a handbag. Screenshots from ship security footage appear to show the jet skis circling him after his leap.
When questioned, González-Díaz claimed he jumped because he didn’t want to declare the cash to authorities, fearing he’d be taxed.
Royal Caribbean confirmed the incident, saying they’re cooperating with investigators. González-Díaz was later released on bail but faces possible prison time—up to five years—or a $250,000 fine if convicted.
The failed escape attempt now leaves him not only in debt, but also facing federal charges.
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