Delta Airlines pilot Rustom Bhagwagar and ex-girlfriend face multiple child sex abuse charges, dramatic arrest

Rustom Bhagwagar, a Delta Airlines co-pilot, was arrested in the cockpit shortly after his flight landed in San Francisco on July 26.

Following his arrest on 24 felony child sex abuse charges, his 45-year-old ex-girlfriend, Jennifer Powell, has also been charged in connection with the case involving the abuse of a young child over five years.

Mr Bhagwagar faces multiple serious charges, including sexual acts with a child aged 10 or younger, oral copulation with a child, forcible lewd acts, and aggravated sexual assault.

Ms Powell, who was the child’s guardian and in a relationship with Mr Bhagwagar, is accused of enabling the abuse and sometimes participating in it.

Both could face 15 years to life in prison if convicted.

The alleged offences reportedly took place between 2018 and 2023. Court documents indicate Powell was aware of and occasionally involved in the abuse, which allegedly began when the child was six years old and continued until age 11.

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

The investigation began in April, with law enforcement agencies including the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations involved in the arrest.

It is not yet clear if either defendant has entered a plea or has legal representation.

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