Mariner Accused of Rape Loses Sea Work, Evades Criminal Charges

Edgar Sison, a mariner accused of sexually assaulting a student from the US Merchant Marine Academy, has surrendered his credential to work on ships but will not face criminal charges. The case, which prompted reforms in the shipping industry, involved allegations of forced alcohol consumption and assault. The US Coast Guard amended an administrative complaint against Sison, who voluntarily surrendered his credential. The Department of Justice declined to comment on the decision not to prosecute. The case highlighted long-standing issues of sexual assault in the maritime industry and the limitations of the Coast Guard's investigations.