Ryan Coffey of San Diego has pleaded guilty in federal court, admitting that he sexually abused the 14-year-old girl seated next to him on an American Airlines flight from Charlotte, North Carolina to San Diego, California.
Coffey was indicted on March 15, 2024, for sexual abuse of a minor and abusive sexual contact stemming from his actions on an evening flight on January 7, 2023.
Coffey, who was 31 years old at the time of the offence, pleaded guilty, admitting that he gave the girl rum and touched her inner thigh and breasts. The defendant did not know the victim.
“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.”
“Ryan Coffey’s conduct was abhorrent,” said Acting FBI San Diego Special Agent in Charge TJ Holland. “The FBI, along with our dedicated law enforcement partners remain committed to using all tools available to follow the evidence and bring those who commit crimes against children to justice.”
