Passenger’s Butt Slap On Delta Flight Could Change His Life Forever

A Delta Air Lines passenger is facing a felony charge that could send him to prison for decades after allegedly slapping a flight attendant on the buttocks during an in-flight beverage service, according to court filings.

An Atlanta federal grand jury indicted Cody James Maluck, 32, on June 9 on a charge of interfering with flight crew members and attendants. The incident occurred on May 9 aboard Delta Flight 800 from Fort Lauderdale to Los Angeles. Prosecutors accuse Maluck of making “unwanted physical contact.” 

The flight attendant, identified in the complaint as P.L.L., was conducting beverage service when she walked past Maluck’s seat, believing he was asleep, and continued to assist another nearby passenger.

P.L.L. told investigators she then felt a slap to her buttocks with enough force to cause her to leap forward.

“Immediately thereafter, she turned around and observed Maluck raising his hands and stating words to the effect of, ‘I didn’t do anything,’” the complaint reads.

The flight attendant reported the incident to the lead flight attendant, who notified the pilot. The crew decided to divert to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, where authorities took Maluck into custody.

According to the complaint, Maluck admitted touching the flight attendant’s buttocks but disputed her description of the contact. He told investigators he was wearing headphones and did not hear anyone ask whether he wanted a beverage.

Maluck said he touched the flight attendant to get her attention, but did not intend to harm or disrespect her.

“We have zero tolerance for unruly behavior and will work with law enforcement authorities in the prosecution of anyone who violates federal law while flying,” Delta Airlines said in a statement to The New York Post.

If convicted, Maluck faces up to 20 years in federal prison.