A couple from Connecticut was arrested for allegedly engaging in inappropriate sexual behavior on a JetBlue flight in front of a mother and her two children. The incident happened on July 19 during a flight from New York to Sarasota, Florida.
According to the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office, 42-year-old Christopher Drew Arnold and 43-year-old Trista L. Reilly were seen performing sexual acts in their seats. Around 10:28 am, the mother informed a flight attendant that her children had witnessed the couple's actions. When the flight landed at Sarasota Bradenton International Airport, law enforcement officials met the plane, and both Arnold and Reilly were taken into custody around 11:30 am.
Police confirmed that the children also told them what they had seen. The couple was charged with “lewd or lascivious exhibition” in front of minors. This is a serious offense in Florida. After being arrested, both Arnold and Reilly were later released without having to pay bail. They are scheduled to appear in court on August 15 for further legal proceedings.
After the incident, JetBlue permanently banned the couple from flying with the airline. In a statement, JetBlue said, “This behavior is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Our crew acted quickly and involved our security team and the police. We are fully cooperating with the investigation.” Also, records show that both individuals are also facing separate charges in Connecticut related to earlier incidents. Arnold had been arrested in March for disorderly conduct and assault.