Captain Pleads Guilty to Sea Abuse | Dover News

Dover News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jul 16, 2026 · 1m

A former cargo ship captain just admitted guilt to five horrific charges—including aggravated sexual abuse—after a 21-year-old cadet testified against him during a trial that was already underway. The assault, which occurred aboard a training vessel, was part of a pattern spanning decades, with multiple victims coming forward. The captain, Merrone, had a prior conviction overturned and now faces sentencing in December. The cadet, who still works in maritime operations, said she felt closure after hearing him plead guilty. Prosecutors revealed he’d invited her and another student to his room…