Neeraj Chopra, Abusive Sexual Contact, Minnesota 2019

A Minneapolis man has been sentenced to 15 months in prison for engaging in abusive sexual contact with a minor on an airplane. The disturbing crime took place in April 2019 on a Jet Blue flight from Boston to Minneapolis. 41-year-old Neeraj Chopra, a Minneapolis resident, was convicted of knowingly engaging in abusive sexual contact with a 16-year-old victim who was seated next to him.

According to court documents, Chopra draped a blanket over his lap and under the blanket, he inappropriately touched the victim’s right leg. The victim repeatedly asked Chopra to stop, but he ignored their requests and continued the abuse.

The case was brought to light after a three-day trial in July 2021, where a federal jury convicted Chopra on one count of abusive sexual contact. This conviction serves as a reminder of the importance of holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.

The investigation into this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport Police. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lauren O. Roso and Michelle E. Jones prosecuted the case.

Defendant’s Details:

Defendant: Neeraj Chopra

Criminal Charges: Abusive Sexual Contact

City and State: Minneapolis, Minnesota

Crime Date: April 2019

Sentence: 15 months in prison

Assistant U.S. Attorneys: Lauren O. Roso and Michelle E. Jones

Investigating Agencies: Federal Bureau of Investigation and Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport Police

This case highlights the importance of reporting and addressing sexual abuse, particularly in public spaces where victims may feel isolated or powerless.

Much like the victim in this case, many others may be too afraid to speak out against their abusers. It is crucial that we create a society where victims feel supported and encouraged to report such crimes, and perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.

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