URGENT UPDATE: A former California Highway Patrol captain, Dennis Woodbury, was sentenced to probation on April 13, 2025, for lewd behavior on a JetBlue Airways flight. The incident, which occurred on a flight from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to Los Angeles International Airport, included exposing himself and slapping a flight attendant’s behind while intoxicated.
Woodbury, 50, from Azusa, California, pleaded guilty to one federal count of “abusive sexual contact” in October. In a surprising turn of events, U.S. District Judge Percy Anderson opted for a lenient sentence, imposing three years of probation instead of the potential two-year prison term.
The court heard that Woodbury consumed a bottle of Prosecco during the flight. Prosecutors detailed a series of inappropriate actions, including showing a pornographic photo to a flight attendant and suggesting they should go on a cruise together. This behavior escalated during meal service when Woodbury slapped the rear of a second flight attendant and declared his love for him.
In a shocking moment, Woodbury also pulled down his trousers in front of another attendant in the plane’s galley, further showcasing his drunken misconduct. Flight attendants confirmed that none of the actions were consensual, leading to federal charges.
As part of his sentence, Woodbury must complete 100 hours of community service and undergo mandatory outpatient treatment for substance abuse and mental health. He is also required to abstain from alcohol during his probation period.
This incident raises serious concerns about passenger safety and the responsibilities of flight crews in managing unruly behavior. Authorities are reminding travelers of the legal implications of such actions aboard flights.
What happens next? Woodbury’s case has ignited conversations about the need for stricter regulations regarding in-flight conduct and the support systems in place for flight attendants facing harassment. As conversations continue, many will be watching for potential policy changes in airline protocols to protect crews and passengers alike.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
