Delta Pilot Arrested in Cockpit Faces 24 Felony Counts in Shocking California Child Sex Abuse Case

Pilot Arrested in Cockpit Following Flight From Minneapolis

In a shocking and public takedown, Rustom Bhagwagar, a 34-year-old Delta Air Lines pilot, was arrested immediately after landing a commercial flight at San Francisco International Airport on Saturday night, July 27, 2025. The arrest took place in the cockpit of Delta Flight 2809, following a coordinated operation involving Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations.

Arrest Conducted in View of Crew and Passengers

Witnesses onboard the flight described a team of roughly 10 law enforcement officers boarding the aircraft and marching straight to the cockpit. Moments later, Bhagwagar was escorted out in handcuffs, leaving passengers stunned. The arrest followed a months-long investigation that began in April 2025.

24 Felony Charges Linked to Child Sex Abuse

According to the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office, Bhagwagar is now facing 24 felony charges, including:

• Engaging in sexual acts with a child under 10

• Aggravated sexual assault of a child

• Forcible lewd acts upon a child

• Oral copulation with a minor

All charges stem from incidents that allegedly occurred in Contra Costa County, California. The abuse was described as severe and prolonged, and Bhagwagar is being held at the Martinez Detention Facility with bail set at $15 million.

Co-Defendant Also Charged

A second individual, Jennifer Powell, 45, has been charged in a related felony complaint. She is also in custody at the same facility. Both defendants are expected to be arraigned on August 19, 2025, and face prison sentences of 15 years to life if convicted.

Statement From the District Attorney

“Our office stands firmly committed to protecting children and holding those who cause harm accountable,” said District Attorney Diana Becton. “Every child deserves to feel safe, protected and heard when an injustice like this occurs.”

Delta Air Lines Responds to Arrest

In an official statement, Delta Air Lines expressed outrage and confirmed that Bhagwagar has been suspended pending an internal investigation. The airline added:

“Delta has zero tolerance for unlawful conduct.”

A short video of the arrest was published by View From the Wing, showing authorities exiting the cockpit with visible badges and law enforcement vests.

Protecting Survivors of Institutional Sexual Abuse

This case serves as a powerful reminder that sexual abuse can occur in any setting, including among professionals in positions of trust and responsibility. At Survivors of Abuse NY, our legal team is committed to helping survivors of sexual abuse step forward and reclaim their voices.

Legal Help Is Available

Led by Thomas Giuffra, Esq. – The Abuse Lawyer NY, we offer compassionate and experienced legal representation to those harmed by sexual predators—whether in schools, healthcare institutions, the clergy, or high-profile professions such as aviation.

If you or a loved one has been impacted by sexual abuse, we are here to listen and help. Every survivor deserves justice and support.

Contact Survivors of Abuse NY Today

We understand how difficult it can be to come forward—but you are not alone. Contact Thomas Giuffra, Esq. – The Abuse Lawyer NY at (646) 413-6394 for a confidential and free consultation.

Justice can begin with one phone call. Let us help you take the next step.

Source:
NY TIMES