Sexual Abuse on a Flight: San Diego Man Sentenced to Two Years in Prison
Background
Ryan Coffey, a 31-year-old San Diego man, was sentenced to two years in prison for sexually abusing a 14-year-old girl on a cross-country flight.
The Incident
The incident occurred on January 7, 2023, on an American Airlines flight from Charlotte, North Carolina, to San Diego. Coffey, who did not know the girl, gave her rum and inappropriately touched her on the plane.
Investigation
A fellow passenger overheard the girl tell Coffey that she was underage, and Coffey allegedly took a bottle of alcohol out of his bag and offered it to the girl, saying it would help her relax. The girl later reported the abuse to a friend.
Sentencing
Coffey pleaded guilty to one count of abusive sexual contact of a minor on an aircraft and received the maximum sentence for that crime. U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath praised the bravery of the girl who reported the abuse and the swift action of law enforcement.
Statement from the U.S. Attorney’s Office
"Thanks to the courage of a brave girl who reported what happened in the dark on a plane and swift engagement from law enforcement, this defendant was brought to justice," said U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath. "The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to protecting the public in the air, on the ground, or at sea."
Conclusion
The case highlights the importance of reporting incidents of sexual abuse and the commitment of law enforcement to protecting the public, regardless of the location.
FAQs
Q: What was the nature of the incident?
A: Ryan Coffey, a 31-year-old San Diego man, sexually abused a 14-year-old girl on a cross-country flight.
Q: What was Coffey’s sentence?
A: Coffey was sentenced to two years in prison for abusive sexual contact of a minor on an aircraft.
Q: Who reported the abuse?
A: The 14-year-old girl reported the abuse to a friend.
Q: What was the reaction of the U.S. Attorney’s Office?
A: U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath praised the bravery of the girl who reported the abuse and the swift action of law enforcement, stating that the U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to protecting the public in the air, on the ground, or at sea.
