‘Costa Concordia’ Captain receives sentence
The former Captain of the ‘Costa Concordia’ cruise ship that capsized back in January 2012 has been found guilty of manslaughter and sentenced to 16 years in prison – 10 years less than expected.
Francesco Schettino had been on trial in Tuscany, Italy, on criminal charges including multiple manslaughter, causing an environmental disaster and abandoning ship on the night of the disaster that took 32 lives.
But, the legal battle for justice continues for passengers and crew who suffered physical injury and psychological symptoms including post-traumatic stress disorder, causing flashbacks, nightmares and a fear of travelling.
Philip Banks, a partner at the UK-based personal injury lawyer firm representing the passengers and crew, Irwin Mitchell, said: “It was over three years ago when the Costa Concordia sank – this is unthinkable in modern times and was life-changing experience for those onboard.”
Irwin Mitchell is now working with Italian lawyers to issue court proceedings for 12 passengers and crew. Last year, the firm also secured undisclosed settlements for a number of other British passengers through the UK courts against cruise operator Costa Crociere Spa to include compensation for their pain and suffering and other financial losses.
“It is vital that all cruise operators learn from the information gathered from the Captain’s criminal trial as well as the many other investigations into what happened so that the risk of any similar accidents being repeated is reduced,” added Mr Banks.
More than 4,000 passengers and crew were on board Costa Concordia when it hit a rock near the island of Giglio, off Italy’s western coast. The impact ripped a hole in the hull and 32 people died as the ship capsized.
By Rachael Doyle
Related Articles
MARINE CONSTRUCTION
POWER & PROPULSION
ENVIRONMENT