Key West, United States: An Oregon man was arrested in Florida after allegedly groping a female passenger during a commercial flight bound for Key West, according to authorities.
The incident took place on May 16 aboard a flight heading to Key West International Airport in Florida. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office identified the accused as 61-year-old John Gregory Duffy of Gresham, Oregon.
According to investigators, the woman told authorities Duffy allegedly grabbed her breast while the aircraft was in flight. Officials said that when the passenger attempted to move away from him, he allegedly grabbed her thigh as well. Witnesses onboard reportedly observed the incident and later corroborated the victim’s account to law enforcement.
Deputies from the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office were waiting for the aircraft upon arrival at Key West International Airport and took Duffy into custody shortly after landing. He was subsequently booked into the Monroe County Jail on a battery charge. Under Florida law, battery generally means, intentionally touching or striking another person against their will, or intentionally causing bodily harm.
Authorities said no serious physical injuries were reported in connection with the alleged assault.
The arrest occurred on Saturday and Duffy was formally charged with battery following statements gathered from the victim and witnesses onboard the aircraft. Hoodline further reported that deputies escorted the accused off the aircraft immediately after the plane arrived at the gate. Duffy was booked into custody at approximately 5:46 p.m. His arraignment has reportedly been scheduled for May 28.
Officials have not publicly disclosed the airline involved, the origin city of the flight, or whether federal agencies such as the FBI are participating in the investigation. No attorney representing Duffy had been publicly identified at the time of reporting.
