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A Brewer man will spend a year in prison for assaulting his now ex-girlfriend on an international cruise.

U.S. District Judge Stacey D. Neumann on Tuesday handed down her sentence against 46-year-old John Kelleher, who also will serve a year on supervised release and pay $360 in restitution, in U.S. District Court in Bangor, according to the U.S. attorney’s office.

Kelleher pleaded guilty to assault on Jan. 6, 2026.

 

Kelleher and his then-girlfriend were traveling on an international cruise in December 2024. At the time, Kelleher was prohibited from leaving the state without permission and consuming alcohol as part of his probation, the U.S. attorney’s office said.

Kelleher, who had been drinking heavily, bit and punched his girlfriend.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence and would like to talk with an advocate, call 866-834-4357, TTY 1-800-437-1220. This free, confidential service is available 24/7 and is accessible from anywhere in Maine.