San Diego Man Pleads Guilty to Sexual Abuse of 14-Year-Old Girl on an Airplane

NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – August 12, 2024

SAN DIEGO – Ryan Coffey of San Diego pleaded guilty in federal court today, admitting that he sexually abused the 14-year-old girl seated next to him on an American Airlines flight from Charlotte, North Carolina to San Diego, California.

Coffey was indicted on March 15, 2024, for Sexual Abuse of a Minor and Abusive Sexual Contact stemming from his actions on an evening flight on January 7, 2023. Coffey, who was 31 years old at the time of the offense, pleaded guilty, admitting that he gave the girl rum and touched her inner thigh and breasts. The defendant did not know the victim.

“Thanks to the courage of a brave girl who reported what happened in the dark on a plane, and swift engagement from law enforcement, this defendant was brought to justice,” said U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to protecting the public in the air, on the ground, or at sea.”

“Ryan Coffey’s conduct was abhorrent,” said Acting FBI San Diego Special Agent in Charge TJ Holland.  “The FBI, along with our dedicated law enforcement partners remain committed to using all tools available to follow the evidence and bring those who commit crimes against children to justice.”

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew Sherwood and Katie Grammenidis.

DEFENDANTS                                             Case Number                         24cr505-AJB

Ryan Coffey                                                   Age: 33                                   San Diego, CA

SUMMARY OF CHARGES

Abusive Sexual Contact Title 18, U.S.C., Section 2244(a)(3)

Maximum penalty: Two years in prison

INVESTIGATING AGENCY

Federal Bureau of Investigation