⏱ 2 min read
A 58-year-old Seattle man, Keith Witt, has been sentenced to 18 months in prison for sexually assaulting a 19-year-old woman on a flight from Billings, Montana to Seattle. The incident occurred on August 11, 2023, during a 90-minute flight. Witt, who was sitting in the aisle seat next to the victim, engaged her in conversation and made her uncomfortable by asking personal questions and touching her shoulder and earbuds.
As the victim tried to avoid him by feigning sleep, Witt continued to invade her space, touching her thigh and moving his hand up to her inner thigh. The victim’s ordeal ended when the flight attendant intervened. Witt was found guilty by a jury in February 2026 and sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ricardo S. Martinez, who noted that Witt had testified falsely during the trial.
The Western District of Washington has been actively prosecuting cases of sex assault on aircraft, with at least 15 cases in the last three years, resulting in guilty verdicts. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Neil Floyd stated that the office will continue to hold offenders accountable and bring justice to victims.
The case highlights the need for awareness and vigilance when traveling, especially for young women. The victim’s bravery in reporting the incident and testifying against Witt has helped to bring him to justice.
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Sex Crimes
- Defendant: Washington
- Location: WA
- Source: DOJ Press Release
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
Sex CrimesSex CrimesSex CrimesSex Crimes