Man Charged in Federal Court for Allegedly Slapping Delta Flight Attendant
Cody Maluck, 32, was indicted in federal court in Georgia on charges of interfering with flight crew after allegedly slapping a flight attendant's buttocks on Delta Flight 800 on May 9. The incident occurred during in-flight beverage service and caused the flight to divert to Atlanta. If convicted, Maluck faces up to 20 years in federal prison.
Cody James Maluck, 32, was indicted by an Atlanta federal grand jury on June 9 on a charge of interfering with flight crew members and attendants following an incident aboard Delta Flight 800 from Fort Lauderdale to Los Angeles on May 9. According to court filings, Maluck allegedly slapped a flight attendant identified as P.L.L. on the buttocks during beverage service. The flight attendant reported feeling a forceful slap and observed Maluck raising his hands and denying involvement. The incident prompted the flight crew to divert to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, where authorities took Maluck into custody. Maluck admitted to touching the flight attendant but claimed he was wearing headphones, did not hear beverage service being offered, and touched her only to get her attention without intent to harm or disrespect her. Delta Air Lines stated it has zero tolerance for such conduct and will cooperate with law enforcement.
How coverage differed
The Daily Wire's headline emphasizes potential severe consequences ('Could Change His Life Forever,' 'decades in prison'), while the Washington Times presents the facts more straightforwardly. The Daily Wire also includes more vivid language describing the alleged contact ('leap forward') compared to the Washington Times's more neutral reporting.
What different sources said
- Daily WireRight
Passenger’s Butt Slap On Delta Flight Could Change His Life Forever
- Washington TimesRight
Man charged in federal court, accused of slapping Delta flight attendant's behind
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