A West Chester man will spend years behind bars for a brazen attack on a minor on a flight from San Diego to Philadelphia.
Edward Decker, 46, of West Chester, PA, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Nitza I. Quinones Alejandro to one count of abusive sexual contact on an aircraft.
According to court documents, Decker intentionally touched the thigh and breast of a minor while she was sleeping on an American Airlines flight on July 29, 2022. The victim woke up to find Decker’s hands and face under her clothes and on her body.
‘The facts of this case are incredibly disturbing — a parent’s nightmare, really,’ said U.S. Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero. ‘Not only should people feel safe putting their kids on a plane to get from Point A to Point B, everyone should feel free to close their eyes mid-flight without fearing a seatmate’s intentions.’
U.S. Attorney Romero vowed to continue cracking down on crimes aboard aircraft, supporting justice for the victims. FBI special agent Wayne A. Jacobs echoed her statement, urging everyone to be aware of their surroundings while in flight and to report incidents of abusive sexual contact to their flight crew and the FBI.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Josh A. Davison. Sentencing is set for September 23, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. and Decker faces a maximum possible sentence of three years’ imprisonment.
Abusive sexual contact on an aircraft is a serious crime with severe consequences. This case serves as a stark reminder that perpetrators will be held accountable for their actions, no matter how brazen or disturbing.
As the Grimy Times continues to shine a light on crimes that occur in the shadows, we urge our readers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities. Together, we can create a safer and more just society for all.
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Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Sex Crimes
- Source: Official Source ↗
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