Jealous Michigan Boyfriend Jailed After Fake Bomb Threat to Girlfriend’s Cruise Ship

Plot twist: the real bomb was his emotional stability.

Upset Over Cruise Snub, Teen Sends Threat

A 19-year-old Michigan man has been sentenced to eight months in federal prison after sending a false bomb threat to Carnival Cruise Lines. Joshua Lowe admitted he was upset after being left behind to watch pets while his girlfriend and her family enjoyed a Caribbean cruise without him. His frustration led him to email Carnival Corp with the alarming message: “Hey, I think someone might have a bomb on your Sunrise cruise ship.”

Cruise Ship Searched Mid-Voyage

The January 2024 email triggered a massive response. The Carnival Sunrise had already set sail from Miami en route to Jamaica when authorities were alerted. More than 1,000 rooms were searched after the bomb threat, and the ship was forced to change course. Though no explosives were found, the disruption caused delays, fear among passengers, and the diversion of critical law enforcement resources.

FBI Tracks Email to Teen

According to Assistant U.S. Attorney Nils Kessler, FBI agents quickly traced the anonymous email back to Lowe, who was staying with his girlfriend’s family at the time. During questioning, Lowe admitted he sent the message out of jealousy and frustration. “Anyone making a bomb threat should expect to be taken at his word,” Kessler said.
Lowe apologized in a letter to U.S. District Judge Paul Maloney, writing: “This is all my fault and I take full responsibility.” While the offense carries a potential five-year sentence, Lowe received eight months behind bars.

Authorities: No Tolerance for Threats

Federal authorities emphasized that hoax threats not only create fear but waste public safety resources. “Bomb threats are not a laughing matter,” said FBI Special Agent Cheyvoryea Gibson. “The FBI takes all threats to life seriously and will ensure that those who resort to this kind of intimidation face the appropriate consequences.”

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