Ram N. Gazab, Abusive Sexual Contact, Washington 2024

Abusive Sexual Contact Accusations Hit Close to Home on Seattle Flight

A disturbing incident on a flight from Fresno to Seattle has led to serious charges against a New York man. Ram N. Gazab, 29, allegedly committed Abusive Sexual Contact against a 14-year-old boy seated next to him.

According to records, on December 26, 2023, the victim was in a window seat near the back of the plane when Gazab seated himself in the empty middle seat. Approximately 20 minutes before landing, Gazab allegedly placed his hand on the victim's thigh, prompting the victim to move away and tell him to stop.

Gazab claimed he had been sleeping, but the victim reported the conduct to the flight crew, and law enforcement responded to the plane. After the plane landed, the victim tried to leave the row, and Gazab allegedly touched the victim's buttocks.

The victim's report led to Gazab's arrest, and he has remained detained since. A grand jury returned the indictment on January 10, 2024, and Gazab pleaded 'not guilty' to the charges on the same day.

The case is being investigated by the FBI and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Celia A. Lee. Abusive Sexual Contact is punishable by up to two years in prison.

Gazab's trial is scheduled for March 11, 2024, in front of U.S. District Judge Tana Lin. The charges contained in the indictment are only allegations, and Gazab is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of airline safety and the need for vigilance in reporting suspicious behavior.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdwa/pr/new-york-resident-indicted-abusive-sexual-contact