A Delta Air Lines pilot was arrested at San Francisco International Airport on July 26 in connection with multiple charges related to child sexual abuse, according to authorities.
Rustom Bhagwagar, 34, was taken into custody by law enforcement shortly after Delta Flight 2809 landed around 9:35 p.m., following weather-related delays. The Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Bhagwagar faces five felony counts of oral copulation with a child under the age of 10.
The arrest stems from an ongoing investigation that began in April after authorities received a report involving alleged abuse. Jail records indicate Bhagwagar is currently being held on $5 million bail.
As of Monday, July 28, there was no confirmation that Bhagwagar had secured legal representation, and an initial court appearance had not yet been scheduled.
Footage circulating online and shared by travel publication View from the Wing shows law enforcement officers boarding the plane upon arrival. Some appeared to be in plainclothes with badges visibly displayed as they made their way through the aircraft.
Delta Air Lines issued a statement expressing deep concern over the charges and confirmed that Bhagwagar has been suspended pending the outcome of the investigation.
“We are appalled by the reports related to the arrest,” Delta said. “We are fully cooperating with law enforcement.”
The nature of the incident remained unclear until the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office released its official statement. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), which assisted with the arrest, confirmed that the sheriff’s office is leading the case.
“There was an arrest warrant. HSI was assisting,” said Hira Zhahir, a public affairs officer with the agency.
The case has garnered national attention, as the arrest occurred shortly after the pilot completed a commercial flight. Authorities have stated that the investigation is ongoing.
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