First American CEO Kenneth DeGiorgio Faces Misdemeanor Assault Charges Following Cruise Ship Incident
Kenneth DeGiorgio, the Chief Executive Officer of First American Financial Corporation, has been charged with misdemeanor assault in connection with an altercation that took place aboard a cruise ship. According to reports from the FBI, the incident began after DeGiorgio’s wife approached a man who was dancing barefoot at the ship’s bar and requested that he wear shoes.
Details of the Altercation
Witnesses indicated that the man responded inappropriately, allegedly making a crude remark and gesturing offensively by giving her the middle finger. Following this exchange, DeGiorgio reportedly intervened by grabbing the man’s neck and choking him on the dance floor, making threats to kill him. Surveillance footage is said to support the victim’s claims, providing evidence of the confrontation.
Immediate Consequences
In light of the altercation, the captain of the cruise ship confined DeGiorgio to his cabin until the vessel docked in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Upon arrival, law enforcement officials were involved, but DeGiorgio chose not to respond to inquiries and requested legal representation.
Legal Proceedings and Company Background
DeGiorgio, who has held the CEO position since February 2022 after serving as president for nearly a year, faces a misdemeanor charge that could lead to a maximum of one year in prison. He has since been released after the incident. His extensive career at First American began in 1999, and over the years, he has managed various operations across banking and international divisions. In the previous fiscal year, DeGiorgio reported total compensation amounting to $7.8 million according to filings with the SEC.
Response from Legal Counsel
In a statement provided to the media, DeGiorgio’s legal team denied that he was the aggressor in this situation. They articulated that “Mr. DeGiorgio responded to the actions of an individual who harassed his wife, making her feel threatened and intimidated. Although charged with a simple misdemeanor, Mr. DeGiorgio looks forward to being absolved of any wrongdoing.”
Company Reaction
As of this moment, First American Financial has not publicly addressed the situation or issued any comment regarding the incident.
