Man admits sexually abusing girl, 14, on San Diego-bound flight

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) -- A San Diego man pleaded guilty in federal court Monday to sexually abusing a 14-year-old girl on an airplane last year, prosecutors said.

Ryan Coffey, 33, admitted to giving the girl, whom he did not know and was sitting next to, rum and touching her inner thigh and breasts on an American Airlines evening flight from Charlotte, North Carolina to San Diego on Jan. 7, 2023, the Office of the United States Attorney Southern District of California said in a news release.

Coffey was indicted on March 15 for sexual abuse of a minor and abusive sexual contact.

“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,” U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath said. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to protecting the public in the air, on the ground, or at sea.”

Acting FBI San Diego Special Agent in Charge TJ Holland called Coffey's conduct "abhorrent."

“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,” Holland said.

Coffey faces a maximum penalty of two years in prison.