As reported to the FAA. Reports are unverified, and codes are left as the FAA publishes them.
What was found
DURING ROUTINE MAINTENANCE THE RUDDER II SKIN WAS FOUND CRACKED.THE CRACK WAS APROX.7 1/2 INCHES LONG AND APROX. 4 INCHES FROM THE BOTTOM.THE CRACK WAS PERPENDICULAR TO THE TRAILING EDGE.MAINTENANCE REPAIRED THE RUDDER II SKIN I/A/W CONTINENTAL EXPRESS EC5540-01015.THE AIRCRAFT WAS RELEASED FOR SERVICE.