A 23-year-old Jacksonville man accused of sexually abusing a teen on a Carnival cruise pled not guilty on Thursday.
Brian Holland, arrested by the FBI after the Carnival Elation cruise, remains in federal custody after the 18-year-old woman with special needs reported Holland made unwanted sexual advances toward her in a Jacuzzi.
The criminal complaint in the case show the woman’s family told authorities the victim has the mental capacity of a 12-year-old.
Holland’s attorney has argued the suspect needs mental health and substance abuse treatment. While incarcerated, Holland has attempted suicide three times, according to previous statements made in court by prosecutors and Holland’s defense attorney.
A federal trial has been scheduled for May 7 at 9 a.m.