FBI alerts passengers of sexual assault on aircrafts

Jocelyn Flores
·1 min read

EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — FBI El Paso warns about the dangers of sexual assault aboard airplanes in recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month.

According to the FBI El Paso Field Office, there has been an increase in federal crime towards flying passengers. Sexual assault aboard an aircraft is a felony that can be punishable by prison.

Most passengers travel by air without incident, but if you or a loved one encounter what you

believe is physical or verbal sexual misconduct, immediately alert your flight attendant. Flyers should take precautions and always be aware of their surroundings,” said FBI El Paso Special Agent in Charge John Morales.

Here are some tips passengers can take for precautions before and after take-off:

  • Trust your gut. Offenders often test their victims to see how they react. If such behaviors continue, set boundaries and consider asking to be moved to another seat.

  • Recognize that mixing alcohol with sleeping pills or other medications on an overnight flight can increase your risk.

  • If your seatmate is a stranger, keep the armrest between you two, no matter how nice they seem.

  • If you are arranging for a child to fly unaccompanied, try to reserve an aisle seat so the flight attendant can keep a close watch on them. Minors are known targets.

  • If an incident happens, report it immediately to the flight crew and ask them to record the attacker’s identity. The flight crew can alert law enforcement if necessary.

The FBI El Paso can be reached 24 hours daily at 915-832-5000. Tips can also be submitted online at tips.fbi.gov.

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