Stephen Forte, Abusive Sexual Contact, Indiana 2025

SOUTH BEND – In a shocking turn of events, Stephen Forte, 63, of Lakeland, Florida, was found guilty of two felony counts after a one-day jury trial presided over by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty.

The guilty verdict was announced by Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay, who revealed that Forte was convicted of abusive sexual contact and interference with the duties of a flight crew member.

According to reports, the crimes were committed within the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States on a flight from St. Petersburg, Florida to South Bend, Indiana.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the St. Joseph County Airport Authority Department of Public Safety.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jerome W. McKeever and Hannah T Jones.

Sentencing is scheduled for September 5, 2025, at 10:00 am. Any specific sentence to be imposed will be determined by the District Court Judge after consideration of federal statutes and the United States Sentencing Guidelines.

Forte's conviction marks a significant victory for law enforcement and a reminder of the consequences of such heinous crimes.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndin/pr/florida-man-found-guilty-jury