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65-Year-Old Man Convicted for Sexual Misconduct on Southwest Airlines Flight

William R. McKelvy, 65, was found guilty of abusive sexual contact for groping a female passenger four times during a Southwest Airlines flight from Tulsa to Dallas. Fellow passengers and crew intervened swiftly, leading to his arrest and a forthcoming sentencing set for September 8. He faces up to three years in prison.

65-Year-Old Man Convicted for Sexual Misconduct on Southwest Airlines Flight

Man Found Guilty of Sexual Misconduct During Southwest Airlines Flight

A 65-year-old man has been convicted of abusive sexual contact after molesting a female passenger on a Southwest Airlines flight from Tulsa to Dallas on April 25, 2023. The disturbing incident has led him to face up to three years in prison, according to federal prosecutors.

The Incident Unfolded Mid-Flight

William R. McKelvy, aged 65, repeatedly groped a woman seated next to him during the flight. The victim reported that McKelvy touched her breast and inner thigh on four separate occasions. Initially, she believed the first contact was accidental, possibly a result of McKelvy’s nervousness about flying.

However, when he touched her a second time, she firmly pushed him away and warned him to stop. Ignoring her objection, McKelvy proceeded to grope her a third time. By the fourth incident, the victim stood and shouted, "Get your hands off me, or I will break your hand!"

Passengers and Crew Responded Swiftly

Other passengers quickly intervened, confronting McKelvy for his inappropriate behavior. Following their alert, a fellow traveler informed the flight attendant who then relocated McKelvy to the back of the plane. Upon landing at Dallas Love Field Airport, the crew handed him over to the police.

Defendant’s Response and Court Proceedings

When questioned by authorities, McKelvy admitted to vaping during the flight and described his actions as "flirting" with the woman. During the trial, he claimed to have no recollection of the events, attributing his memory loss to alcohol and marijuana gummies consumed before boarding.

Despite his defense, the jury took less than 30 minutes to convict him of abusive sexual contact.

Authorities Speak Out Against In-Flight Sexual Assault

Acting U.S. Attorney Nancy E. Larson emphasized that no individual deserves to be subjected to sexual misconduct on an aircraft and commended the quick thinking of passengers and crew.

FBI Dallas Special Agent R. Joseph Rothrock highlighted that sexual assault on planes is a serious federal crime investigated rigorously by the FBI, crediting fellow passengers and flight attendants for the swift detention and charge of the offender.

Upcoming Sentencing

Chief District Judge David C. Godbey, overseeing the trial, is scheduled to sentence McKelvy on September 8.

Passengers and airlines alike remain vigilant to ensure safe and respectful travel experiences for all.

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