N.J. Man Faces Federal Charge for In-Flight Threats

Luis A. Vaquero, a 27-year-old from Passaic County, New Jersey, was arrested for causing a disturbance on a flight from Miami to Newark by threatening passengers, including a disabled minor, and making racially charged comments towards Jewish passengers. Vaquero's aggressive behavior escalated when he was denied alcohol, leading him to threaten the flight crew and bang on the cockpit door, demanding to confront the pilot. Upon landing, law enforcement escorted him off the plane, and he was charged with interference with flight crew members and attendants by assault or intimidation, a federal offense carrying a possible 20-year prison sentence and a $250,000 fine. Vaquero appeared in Newark federal court and was released pending further legal proceedings. Authorities stress the importance of upholding safety and legal compliance in the skies amid growing concerns about passenger safety and the increasing number of aggressive acts onboard flights.