A California man is facing federal charges after allegedly groping a male flight attendant, exposing himself mid-flight, and making inappropriate sexual comments during a JetBlue flight last month.
Dennis Woodbury, 49, of Azusa, California, was indicted on one felony count of abusive sexual contact for an incident that occurred on April 13 during a flight from Fort Lauderdale to Los Angeles.
According to federal prosecutors, Woodbury — a former California Highway Patrol captain — was reportedly drinking heavily during the flight and targeted two male crew members with his behavior.
Authorities say the troubling behavior began when Woodbury showed one flight attendant a photo that included pornographic images in the background. He later made a crude hand gesture and suggested the crew member join him on a cruise.
The situation escalated when, after meal service, Woodbury allegedly slapped a second male flight attendant on the buttocks as he walked by, then loudly professed his love for him.
Prosecutors also say Woodbury twice exposed his genitals during the flight, even after being denied additional alcohol.
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According to court documents, both flight attendants confirmed they did not consent to any of Woodbury’s actions and reported the incidents immediately.
JetBlue, in a statement, said the airline has “zero tolerance for the behavior alleged” and took immediate action by notifying law enforcement.
Woodbury made his first court appearance in April and was released on a $50,000 bond. If convicted, he faces up to two years in federal prison.
The FBI and Los Angeles Airport Police are leading the investigation. Woodbury is scheduled to be arraigned in U.S. District Court in Los Angeles on May 12.
The incident comes amid heightened concerns about safety and in-flight misconduct, as airlines and authorities continue to crack down on inappropriate behavior in the skies.
