A couple from Connecticut, accused of engaging in sexual activity in front of a child during a JetBlue flight, will not face criminal charges after being permanently banned from the airline for unruly behavior last week.
Trista Riley and Christopher Arnold had their lewd conduct charges dropped as their case hit a pause in court, with prosecutors struggling to address jurisdictional concerns. The Sarasota State Attorney’s Office made the decision to dismiss the charges related to the incident, which took place on July 19, 2025.
Prosecutors explained that the case lagged due to questions of jurisdiction in Sarasota County Court and ultimately decided to drop it since the incident occurred outside of Florida.
It remains uncertain if the couple will face charges in other jurisdictions.
Riley, 43, and Arnold, 42, took JetBlue Flight 163 from JFK Airport in New York to Sarasota/Bradenton International Airport in Florida, where they were involved in the behavior.
Shortly after takeoff, Riley’s mother noticed her daughter in a compromising position, which prompted her to report the incident to the flight attendants, who intervened at cruising altitude.
The minors onboard informed authorities of what they witnessed once the plane reached Florida.
Following the incident, the couple was arrested and charged with sex crimes, but they were released on their own recognizance as the court awaited clarity on jurisdiction.
JetBlue subsequently banned the couple from flying with them again, stating, “This behavior is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated.” The airline expressed that their crew acted swiftly in coordination with the security team and law enforcement and is fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation.
Interestingly, Arnold had previously faced charges in March related to disorderly conduct and assault in Danbury.
