Home San Juan Press Releases 2009 Individual Arrested for Interference With a Flight Crew
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Individual Arrested for Interference With a Flight Crew

FBI San Juan April 01, 2009
  • Special Agent Carlos Osorio (787) 759-1550

Today, the FBI arrested ESTHER PEREZ, age 45, for interfering with a flight crew. On April 1st, 2009, Perez boarded Jetblue flight 708, which departed at approximately 2:00 a.m. from the Luis Muñoz Marin International Airport in San Juan, Puerto Rico and bound for the John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York.

The criminal complaint alleges approximately half hour into the flight and at approximately 37,000 feet, Perez unfastened her seat belt, stood up and ran to the front of the plane, stating something to the effect that she needed to get out. The flight Attendant confronted Perez at the main cabin door of the airplane and told her to return to her seat. Perez allegedly pushed the flight attendant, and grasped the large red door handle on the interior of the cabin door attempting to open it. Once the flight attendant saw Perez’ actions, she screamed for help and Perez was physically restrained by another flight attendant along with passengers on board the plane.

As a result of this incident, the pilot of the aircraft made the decision it was unsafe to continue to New York, and requested an emergency deviation from the flight plan, returning and landing at approximately 3:00 a.m. at the Luis Muñoz Marin International Airport in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Perez is charged with Interference with a Flight Crew, and if convicted, she faces a maximum penalty of up to 20 years’ imprisonment.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lenn Ferrer.

The public is reminded that a criminal complaint is not evidence of any guilt. A defendant is presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial. The U.S. government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.