Altercation on Cruise Ship Involving First American CEO Kenneth DeGiorgio
According to the FBI, the incident began when DeGiorgio’s wife approached a man dancing barefoot at a cruise ship bar and asked him to put on shoes.
The man reportedly responded with a disrespectful comment and was captured on security footage making an offensive gesture towards DeGiorgio’s wife. Subsequently, DeGiorgio allegedly grabbed the man by the neck and proceeded to choke him on the dance floor. The victim claimed that DeGiorgio threatened his life, a statement supported by surveillance video evidence.
Following the altercation, DeGiorgio was confined to his stateroom by the ship’s captain until the vessel reached San Juan, Puerto Rico the next day, as per the FBI.
Upon arrival in San Juan, DeGiorgio opted not to answer inquiries and requested legal representation.
DeGiorgio, based in the Los Angeles region, faced misdemeanor assault charges, which carry a maximum imprisonment term of one year. He has since been released.
Assuming the role of CEO at First American in February 2022 after serving as president since May 2021, DeGiorgio has been with the company since 1999. Over the years, he has managed banking operations, the international division, and various corporate functions. His total compensation last year amounted to $7.8 million, according to SEC filings.
In a statement issued to HousingWire, DeGiorgio’s legal team disputed allegations that he initiated the confrontation, asserting: “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.”
First American Financial did not promptly respond to HousingWire’s request for input.