A former captain of the California Highway Patrol, Dennis Woodbury, has been sentenced to probation following an incident on a flight to Los Angeles where he engaged in inappropriate behavior, including exposing himself and slapping a flight attendant’s behind. On April 13, 2025, during a JetBlue Airways flight from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to Los Angeles International Airport, Woodbury’s actions led to a federal charge of “abusive sexual contact” under U.S. law.
Woodbury, aged 50 and from Azusa, California, pleaded guilty to the charge in October. The felony carries a potential sentence of up to two years in prison. However, U.S. District Judge Percy Anderson opted for a more lenient sentence, imposing three years of probation. As part of his sentence, Woodbury is required to complete 100 hours of community service and undergo outpatient treatment for substance abuse and mental health issues. He must also abstain from consuming alcohol during his probation period, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
According to prosecutors, prior to takeoff, Woodbury consumed a significant amount of alcohol, including a bottle of Prosecco. He reportedly exhibited “inappropriate conduct” towards two flight attendants during the flight. Court documents indicate that he displayed a pornographic photo to one attendant and suggested that they should take a cruise together.
The situation escalated after meal service when Woodbury, allegedly under the influence, slapped the backside of a flight attendant who was collecting meal trays. He then declared his love for the attendant, prompting a formal complaint. In another incident, while in the plane’s front galley, Woodbury pulled down his trousers and exposed himself to a different attendant, who had previously denied his request for more alcohol.
Both flight attendants confirmed to law enforcement that they did not consent to Woodbury’s advances, solidifying the basis for the federal charge. The case highlights the importance of addressing inappropriate behavior in the aviation industry, especially in scenarios involving alcohol consumption.
The incident has garnered significant attention, raising discussions about safety and the conduct of passengers on flights. As air travel resumes normalcy post-pandemic, ensuring a respectful environment for airline staff and passengers remains a priority for the industry.
