Children Saw Them Making ‘Up-and-Down Movements’ on a JetBlue Flight. Now They’re Charged With the Unthinkable

Trista L. Reilly, 43, and Christopher D. Arnold, 42, both from Connecticut, have been accused of engaging in inappropriate behaviour in front of children on a JetBlue flight from New York to Florida earlier this week. The couple now faces two felony counts each of lewd and lascivious exhibition, as reported by probable cause affidavits obtained by PEOPLE. The incident reportedly took place on July 19 while the couple was on board the flight from New York’s JFK Airport to Sarasota Bradenton International Airport in Florida.

Witnesses, including a mother with her two children, allegedly saw Reilly and Arnold involved in sexual activity during the flight. A flight attendant was notified of the situation and approached the couple. The affidavits claim that the flight attendant witnessed Reilly making ‘up-and-down movements’ with her head while she was on Arnold’s lap. Additionally, it is alleged that the couple’s actions were observed by the two children, with Reilly reportedly performing oral sex on Arnold. The flight was around an hour long, and upon landing in Sarasota, the couple was detained by airport police.

Following their arrest, Trista L. Reilly and Christopher D. Arnold were released from custody on their own recognizance on July 21. They are expected to appear in court for their arraignment on August 15. It is currently unknown whether they have secured legal representation. JetBlue, upon learning of the incident, issued a statement expressing their disapproval of such behaviour, stating, “This behaviour is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated by JetBlue.”

The airline also mentioned that upon receiving the report, their crew members promptly engaged with JetBlue’s security team and law enforcement. Cooperation has been assured with the ongoing investigation, and JetBlue has made it clear that the accused individuals are no longer welcome to fly with the airline. Such incidents could potentially have serious consequences not only for the individuals involved but for the airline’s reputation as well. Passengers’ safety, comfort and security are of paramount importance during flights.

This concerning incident highlights the importance of maintaining appropriate behaviour and decorum, especially in public spaces and in the presence of children. Airlines, such as JetBlue, have strict policies in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all passengers onboard. It serves as a reminder for all individuals to act responsibly and respectfully in shared environments. The repercussions of inappropriate actions during air travel can lead to legal consequences and tarnish one’s reputation.

As the legal proceedings continue, the case of Trista L. Reilly and Christopher D. Arnold will shed light on the seriousness of such behaviour and the potential impact it can have on those involved. In the meantime, airlines will continue to enforce stringent measures to uphold standards of conduct aboard their flights. Passengers are encouraged to report any concerns or inappropriate behaviour they witness to ensure a safe and pleasant travel experience for everyone on board.