Recently, a disturbing incident occurred on an Alaska Airlines flight that has led to serious consequences for the perpetrator. Desmond D. Bostick, a 25-year-old man, pleaded guilty to assault with intent to commit a felony after repeatedly groping a woman seated beside him on a flight from San Diego to Seattle.
According to court documents, Bostick admitted to touching the woman inappropriately with the intention of arousing his sexual desires. Throughout the over three-hour-long flight, he used a blanket to cover his hand while caressing the woman's thigh. He also squeezed her buttocks twice as she stood up to allow another passenger to pass.
The woman, feeling scared and unable to speak up, tried unsuccessfully to shift away from Bostick during the flight. Upon landing in Seattle, she immediately reported the incident to Alaska Airlines flight attendants, leading to a police investigation.
After being identified by the woman and indicted for abusive sexual contact, Bostick was arrested by the FBI in February. As a result of his actions, he has been banned from traveling on Alaska Airlines and its affiliate, Horizon.
Prosecutors are recommending a nine-month prison sentence for Bostick, although the maximum penalty for his charge is 10 years. U.S. District Judge Jamal N. Whitehead will ultimately decide the appropriate punishment for this egregious behavior.
