Jerry Boylan, the captain of the California dive boat Conception, has been sentenced to four years in prison following the 2019 fire that resulted in the deaths of 34 individuals. The fire, which is the deadliest maritime disaster in recent US history, happened off Santa Cruz Island. After pleading guilty to misconduct or neglect of ship officer, Boylan faced a potential maximum sentence of 10 years but was handed four years, coupled with three years of supervised release. The defense had sought a probationary sentence, citing a lack of intent and pointing to safety failures by Truth Aquatics Inc., the boat’s owner.

During the sentencing in Los Angeles, victims’ relatives expressed their loss and grief, with Boylan himself expressing remorse. The incident led to sweeping reform in maritime regulations and has prompted a series of ongoing lawsuits against various parties, including the Coast Guard, over alleged lapses in safety enforcement. The criminal case has concluded, but legal battles involving the victims’ families continue.