Ex-California Highway Patrol Captain Indicted for Lewd Behavior on JetBlue Flight

A former captain with the California Highway Patrol (CHP) is facing federal charges after allegedly engaging in a series of lewd and inappropriate acts aboard a JetBlue Airways flight from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to Los Angeles in April. Dennis Wally Woodbury, 49, of Azusa, California, stands accused of abusive sexual contact within the special maritime and territorial jurisdiction of the United States, a felony that could carry a maximum sentence of two years in federal prison.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) announced the indictment, detailing a disturbing sequence of events that transpired on the cross-country flight. According to the DOJ’s press release, Woodbury, a former CHP captain who was previously dismissed from state service, embarked on the JetBlue flight on April 13.

The alleged misconduct began even before the plane left the gate. Prosecutors assert that Woodbury showed one of the male flight attendants a picture of a dog with sexually explicit content in the background. Reports indicate that Woodbury had been consuming alcohol heavily on the plane, allegedly downing an entire bottle of Prosecco sparkling wine within a three-hour period.

As the flight progressed, Woodbury’s behavior reportedly escalated. He allegedly propositioned one of the flight attendants, suggesting they embark on a cruise together, and then made a crude and offensive hand gesture.

Following a meal service on the flight, the second flight attendant was collecting meal trays when Woodbury allegedly slapped the flight attendant’s buttocks with his left hand and shouted that he loved him. The DOJ further alleges that later in the flight, Woodbury entered the front galley where the first flight attendant was present, pulled down his trousers and underwear, and exposed himself.

The flight attendant immediately informed Woodbury that his behavior was inappropriate. Shortly after this incident, Woodbury requested more wine, but the request was denied by the flight attendants.

Upon being refused more alcohol, Woodbury allegedly repeated the act of pulling down his pants and underwear, exposing himself once again. At this point, the flight attendant firmly told him to stop and return to his seat, saying "Enough, go back to your seat."

Both flight attendants subsequently reported the incidents to law enforcement officials, affirming that they had never consented to Woodbury’s actions.

JetBlue Airways has so far declined to comment on the matter.

Woodbury appeared in federal court last month and was released on a $50,000 bond. His arraignment is scheduled for May 12 in U.S. District Court in downtown Los Angeles.

The charge of abusive sexual contact within the special maritime and territorial jurisdiction of the U.S. falls under federal law, as the alleged incidents occurred onboard an aircraft in flight. This jurisdiction extends to offenses committed on aircraft operating in interstate or foreign commerce.

The case has drawn significant attention due to Woodbury’s former position as a high-ranking law enforcement officer. The allegations of his behavior stand in stark contrast to the expected conduct of someone who formerly held a position of authority and responsibility within the California Highway Patrol.

The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and the details presented in the indictment are allegations that must be proven in court. Woodbury is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

The case raises questions about the factors that may have contributed to Woodbury’s alleged actions, including the potential influence of alcohol consumption and any underlying personal issues. The fact that Woodbury had been dismissed from state service prior to the flight also adds another layer of complexity to the situation.

The incident also highlights the challenges faced by flight attendants who are responsible for maintaining order and safety on board aircraft, and who may be subjected to inappropriate or even abusive behavior by passengers. The flight attendants’ actions in this case, including reporting the incidents to law enforcement, demonstrate their commitment to upholding professional standards and ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all passengers and crew members.

The outcome of the case will likely depend on the evidence presented by the prosecution, including witness testimony from the flight attendants and other passengers, as well as any physical evidence that may be available. The defense will have the opportunity to challenge the prosecution’s case and present its own evidence in support of Woodbury’s innocence.

The arraignment scheduled for May 12 will be a key step in the legal process. At the arraignment, Woodbury will formally enter a plea to the charge against him. If he pleads not guilty, the case will proceed to trial.

This case serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible behavior while traveling, particularly in confined spaces such as aircraft. It also underscores the potential consequences of alcohol consumption and the need for individuals to exercise self-control and respect for others, regardless of their personal circumstances. The events that allegedly occurred on the JetBlue flight have resulted in serious legal consequences for Woodbury, and the case will continue to unfold as it moves through the federal court system.