SEATTLE- In a recent incident on a Delta Air Lines (DL) flight, a 69-year-old Andrews, North Carolina resident, Jack Allen Roberson, found himself in federal custody facing charges of abusive sexual contact on board an aircraft.
Acting U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman made the announcement, shedding light on the disturbing event.
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Man charged with abusive sexual contact on Delta flight
According to court records, Roberson was apprehended at Sea-Tac airport on Sunday evening. He will remain in federal custody until his detention hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, July 19, 2023.
The victim, a 15-year-old girl, was accompanied by her guardian during the flight. She was seated next to Roberson when the alleged incident occurred.
As per the criminal complaint, Roberson reportedly touched the victim inappropriately while seemingly asleep. His hand moved onto her thigh, under her skirt, and toward her genitals.
Disturbed by the unwanted contact, the victim immediately informed her guardian, who promptly notified a flight attendant.
In response, the airline staff took swift action, relocating Roberson to a different seat. Upon landing, law enforcement was alerted, and they met the plane upon its arrival at SeaTac. Subsequently, Roberson was placed under arrest and transferred to the Federal Detention Center.
The offense of abusive sexual contact on an aircraft carries severe penalties. If found guilty, Roberson could face up to two years in prison and a fine of $250,000.
Investigation and Legal Proceedings
While the charges in the criminal complaint are serious, it is essential to remember that they are merely allegations at this stage. In the eyes of the law, Jack Allen Roberson is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The FBI is currently handling the investigation into the incident, gathering evidence to present during the legal proceedings.
Assistant United States Attorney Sanaa Nagi will prosecute the case, seeking justice for the victim and ensuring a fair trial for all parties involved.
The case serves as a reminder of the importance of passenger safety on flights and the vigilance of airline staff and law enforcement in addressing such incidents promptly and effectively. As the legal process unfolds, the nation will be watching closely for the pursuit of justice.
As the case progresses, more details will likely emerge, shedding further light on the incident and its implications for air travel safety. Authorities are determined to uphold the law and protect passengers from such inappropriate behavior.
The outcome of the detention hearing will determine Roberson’s immediate future, and the public will await the subsequent legal proceedings to see justice served for the victim.
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