Authorities have arrested Kedus Yacob Damtew after he allegedly threatened flight attendants on a United Airlines flight. The 38-year-old man is from Washington, D.C., but was on a flight from Houston to Newark, New Jersey.
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Details On Man’s Arrest After United Airlines Incident
PEOPLE reports that Kedus Yacob Damtew allegedly threatened and assaulted the flight crew. New Jersey Attorney Philip R. Sellinger confirmed the incident took place in June as the plane was en route to Newark Liberty International Airport.
Damtew reportedly took off his shirt, shoved his chest into a flight attendant, and pinned her against the exit door. He then threatened her, punched an aircraft oven, and threw water at her while yelling. According to PEOPLE, several passengers helped the United Airlines flight attendants and crew restrain Kedus Yacob Damtew with flex cuffs and move him to the back of the plane before landing.
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More Info On Damtew’s Charges & What’s Next For Him
Kedus Yacob Damtew recently faced charges of interference by assault or intimidation and threatening flight attendants and crew members on a United Airlines plane. The Miami Herald notes that if convicted, he could receive a prison sentence of up to 20 years. Additionally, he may also have to pay a fine of up to $250,000. PEOPLE states that Damtew appeared in federal court in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, December 10, where the court released him.
In an official release, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger credited FBI agents for conducting a thorough investigation that helped lead to Damtew’s charges. Additionally, he thanked the Port Authority Police Department under the direction of Edward T. Cetnar for its assistance.
“The charges and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty,” U.S. Attorney Sellinger said.
At this time, United Airlines has not responded to the Kedus Yacob Damtew or commented on his incident during the flight. Furthermore, the flight attendant who allegedly experienced the assault from Dawtew has not released an official statement.
