Alleged Mid-Air Sexual Assault Leads to Federal Charges Against Indian-Origin Man

A 36-year-old man of Indian origin has been formally charged in the United States following accusations of sexually assaulting a fellow passenger during a domestic flight. The indictment details allegations of unwanted physical contact, leading to federal intervention and a scheduled court appearance for the accused. This incident underscores the serious consequences of alleged sexual misconduct within the jurisdiction of air travel.

Details of the Alleged Incident:

Federal prosecutors in Montana announced the charge of "abusive sexual contact" against Bhaveshkumar Dahyabhai Shukla, a resident of Lake Hiawatha, New Jersey. An American Airlines flight from Bozeman, Montana, to Dallas, Texas, on January 26, 2025, is the location of the reported incident that led to this allegation.

Accusations of Inappropriate Touching:

According to an affidavit filed in the Montana federal court by FBI Special Agent Chad McNiven, the alleged victim reported two instances of inappropriate touching by Shukla during the flight. The woman stated that Shukla initially touched her thighs, buttocks, and lower back. She protested, and the contact ceased. However, upon her return from the restroom, the accused allegedly resumed the unwanted touching, including rubbing her in those same areas and her vagina, purportedly using his coat to conceal his actions.

Corroborating Evidence and Investigation:

The FBI agent noted that another passenger on the flight corroborated the alleged victim's account. Following the alleged assault, the victim reportedly contacted her husband via text message, who then alerted the FBI and the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport Police. A joint investigation was subsequently conducted by the FBI, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and the airport police.

Legal Proceedings and Potential Penalties:

Shukla has been formally indicted on one count of abusive sexual contact within the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States. If convicted, he could face a maximum sentence of two years in prison, a fine of up to USD 250,000, and a minimum of five years of supervised release. His arraignment is scheduled for April 17, 2025. The case is being prosecuted by the US Attorney’s Office.