A drunken passenger on a flight back to the UK who sexually assaulted an air stewardess has been sentenced.
Travelling with easyJet from Turkey to Bristol, Robert Sheldon earned himself a suspended prison sentence for his actions.
In July last year, Sheldon drank a whole bottle of vodka that he bought at duty-free before flirting with the stewardess, eventually putting his hand on her wait.
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Bristol Crown Court also heard how Sheldon, of Bryn Celyn, Pentwyn, Cardiff, tried to trip up a male steward and refused to do up his seatbelt.
(Image: Bristol Live/BPM MEDIA)
The 37-year-old was sentenced on Tuesday (January 31) to 18 weeks behind bars, suspended for 12 months.
The pilot was informed of his behaviour on board, with police on hand upon the flight’s arrival at Bristol Airport.
BristolLive reports that Judge Michael Cullum told Sheldon that people who are arrested for being drunk on flights should expect to spend time in custody.
He added: “On that easyJet flight from Turkey you were a thorough, drunken nuisance.”
(Image: BPM MEDIA)
However, because of an upcoming surgery, mental health issues and the fact that he provided care for his mother, Judge Cullum handed him a six-month alcohol course and ordered he pay related fees.
Sheldon had to pay £350 in court fees and £650 to the victim of the sexual assault, as well as having to do up to 35 days of rehabilitation.
Prosecutor Andy Pickett explained how, towards the back end of the more than four-hour flight, Sheldon was asked to do up his seatbelt, to which he replied: “Only if you do it”.
He stood up and leaned in with a pout on his face. The attendant managed to back off but the court heard he then blocked her escape and grabbed her by the waist.
(Image: NurPhoto via Getty Images)
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Sheldon has been banned from flying with easyJet for five years, with both of the members of staff affected saying it made them uncomfortable as they tried to go about their work.
Defence lawyer Chloe Griggs said: “He is genuinely remorseful for his actions. If he could send a message of apology to everyone on that plane then he would.
“The pre-sentence report shows utmost remorse and regret. There is no attempt to pass blame on to others.”
“He knows he’s in an extremely serious position. He knows your honour could send him to immediate custody today.”
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