Flight Fury: Sacramento Woman Accused of Toddler Abuse

SEATTLE – A 33-year-old Sacramento, California woman is facing federal charges after allegedly assaulting a 2-year-old child during a Delta flight from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, to Seattle’s Sea-Tac Airport. Breanna R. Mistler was taken into custody upon arrival on May 1, 2024, and ordered detained pending trial by U.S. Magistrate Judge Brian Tsuchida, who cited the extreme vulnerability of the victim.

According to court documents, the abuse didn’t happen in the shadows. Multiple passengers witnessed Mistler’s alleged attacks. One witness stated the child, seated by the window, was kicked by Mistler, who occupied the aisle seat, after being roused from sleep. The complaint details another disturbing incident where Mistler allegedly shook the toddler “like a rag doll.” Despite attempts by fellow passengers to intervene, the alleged abuse continued unabated throughout the flight.

Customs and Border Protection officers immediately noticed bruising on the child’s body when Mistler was detained at Sea-Tac. The Port of Seattle Police and the FBI quickly took over the investigation, confirming the disturbing reports from those onboard. The toddler is now receiving care from a victim witness specialist, and Child Protective Services (CPS) is working to place the child with a relative. The details emerging paint a harrowing picture of a helpless child subjected to violent acts thousands of feet in the air.

During today’s detention hearing, Judge Tsuchida expressed serious concerns for the child’s safety, stating Mistler “had committed the assaults in front of so many people on a lengthy plane trip.” He emphasized his independent duty to protect the victim, a compelling factor in his decision to deny Mistler bail. The judge clearly wasn’t buying any claims of innocence, and the public display of the alleged abuse weighed heavily on his decision.

Mistler is charged with Assault in a special aircraft jurisdiction, a misdemeanor. A preliminary examination is scheduled for May 16, 2024. Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn Forstein is handling the case, with assistance from AUSA Mike Dion. It’s important to remember that these are allegations at this stage, and Mistler is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

This case highlights a disturbing incident of alleged violence and the quick action of both passengers and authorities. Grimy Times will continue to follow this case as it progresses through the federal court system. The details surrounding this flight are a stark reminder that abuse can happen anywhere, and vigilance from bystanders is crucial in protecting the vulnerable.