November 20, 2025
The sentencing of a Florida charter-boat captain has drawn significant attention after a federal judge ordered him to serve more than eight years in prison for actions leading to the tragic death of diver Mollie Ghiz-Flynn. The case underscores the severe consequences of negligence on the water, and it highlights why families often turn to our Melbourne, FL wrongful death lawyer team when preventable tragedies occur.
According to federal prosecutors, 50-year-old Dustin McCabe purchased a decades-old fishing vessel in early 2020, refitted it, and used it for commercial scuba outings despite telling the U.S. Coast Guard it was only for personal use. The boat, operating under the name Florida Scuba Charters, had mechanical issues from the start. On its first outing, the port engine suddenly engaged while in neutral, nearly pulling a diver into the propeller. The steering system failed, the boat ran aground, and divers warned McCabe not to take it back out until repairs were made.
Instead of reporting the incident or addressing the hazards, McCabe took a second group of divers out the very next day. Among them were Sean Flynn and his wife, 37-year-old Mollie Ghiz-Flynn. When the pair resurfaced from their dive and attempted to board the vessel, McCabe put the boat into reverse. Both divers were pulled beneath the hull, and Ghiz-Flynn became trapped in the same malfunctioning propeller that had caused issues the day before. She could not be freed in time, and despite efforts to save her, she drowned.
Federal prosecutors also revealed that McCabe lied to the Coast Guard about the boat’s purpose and later attempted to obtain fraudulent COVID-19 relief loans. Because of his pattern of dishonesty and what the judge called “reckless conduct,” McCabe received a 100-month federal prison sentence—longer than sentencing guidelines typically recommend.
How Wrongful Death Legal Support Helps Families Heal
Cases like this highlight why families rely on our Melbourne wrongful death attorney services when negligence leads to irreversible loss. Even in emotionally heavy cases, accountability matters. When captains, businesses, or operators fail to follow state laws and safety rules, families may seek compensation and answers through civil claims.
At Tuttle Larsen, P.A., we guide families through these difficult moments with compassion and clarity. Whether a case involves maritime negligence, unsafe equipment, or preventable hazards, our team helps investigate what happened, preserve evidence, and pursue claims under Florida’s Wrongful Death Act. Working with our fatal accident lawyers, families are able to understand their rights and options as they move through the legal process.
Our accidental death lawyers help families seek damages for medical costs, lost financial support, funeral expenses, and emotional suffering. When negligence or misconduct contributes to a loss, our family loss lawyers help make sure those responsible are held accountable. Cases that involve reckless actions—such as ignoring safety warnings or operating unsafe equipment—often require support from our negligence death lawyers who understand how to build strong, evidence-based claims. We offer 24/7 support—no matter when tragedy strikes, we’re available for our clients. And with free consultations, you can be sure that you’ll get all of your questions answered before ever paying a dime. That’s because we care about you and your future, not just winning cases.
At Tuttle Larsen, P.A., we know that no legal action can reverse what happened, but justice and accountability can provide a path forward. If your family is coping with the sudden loss of a loved one, reach out today to learn how our Melbourne wrongful death lawyer team can support you. We are here to help you understand your rights, pursue answers, and take meaningful steps toward closure. Contact us now to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can stand with your family during this difficult time.
