GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — Sean Michael Fitzgerald, 35, a Boca Raton resident, has been convicted by a federal jury of operating a common carrier under the influence of alcohol. The case, which took place in Traverse City, Michigan, was presided over by Chief United States District Judge Robert J. Jonker.
Fitzgerald’s trial, which spanned four days, revealed that on August 25, 2016, he arrived at Cherry Capital Airport with clear signs of intoxication. His speech was slurred, his breath smelled of alcohol, and his eyes were bloodshot. Despite these warning signs, Fitzgerald went ahead to inspect the plane, conduct pre-flight checks, and receive clearance for the flight’s route from air traffic control before being arrested.
His blood alcohol content at the time of arrest was measured at a staggering 0.343%. The acting U.S. Attorney Andrew Birge emphasized the gravity of Fitzgerald’s crime, noting that aircraft operation under the influence poses a significant danger to everyone involved, including passengers, ground crew, and the public.
Birge also commended airport personnel and law enforcement for their swift action in preventing Fitzgerald from flying the plane. FBI Special Agent in Charge David P. Gelios echoed these sentiments, highlighting how community vigilance and strong law enforcement collaboration averted what could have been a catastrophic incident.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI and Traverse City Police Department, with Assistant U.S. Attorneys Clay M. West and Justin M. Presant handling the prosecution. Fitzgerald now faces up to fifteen years in prison at his upcoming sentencing.
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Key Facts
- State: Michigan
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime|Public Corruption|Organized Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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