A Delta Air Lines co-pilot was arrested moments after landing a Boeing 737 in San Francisco.
The arrest took place inside the cockpit, where sheriff’s deputies and federal agents stormed in shortly after the plane arrived from Minneapolis.
Suspect Identified as Florida Resident
Authorities have identified the suspect as Rustom Bhagwagar, 34, a Florida resident.
He was taken into custody on charges related to sex crimes against a child.
The Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Bhagwagar was arrested on five counts of oral copulation with a child under 10.
His bond was set at $5 million.
Arrest Caught on Camera by Passengers
Several passengers on the flight shared videos of the dramatic moment.
Agents were seen walking down the aisle toward the cockpit.
“They stormed the cockpit, cuffed the co-pilot, arrested him, walked him down the aisle, and ushered him off the plane through the cabin doors located between first and coach,” one passenger told The San Francisco Chronicle.
Another passenger, Sarah, told CBS San Francisco that seven agents removed the co-pilot, followed by three more agents who retrieved his luggage and personal items from the cockpit.
Investigation Dates Back to April
According to The New York Times, the investigation began in April.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) records show that Bhagwagar is licensed to operate a Boeing 737-500.
He previously resided in San Ramon, Texas.
Federal and Local Cooperation
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed that its officers assisted local law enforcement during the arrest.
DHS provided logistical support to help deputies gain access to the plane.
“Anyone who commits depraved crimes against a child, including U.S. citizens, will face consequences,” said DHS spokeswoman Tricia McLaughlin.
Delta Airlines Responds
Delta issued a statement following the incident.
“Delta has zero tolerance for unlawful conduct and will fully cooperate with law enforcement,” the airline said.
“We are appalled by reports of the charges related to the arrest, and the individual in question has been suspended pending an investigation.”
