A Southwest Airlines passenger who punched a flight attendant and knocked two of her teeth out last year has been sentenced to serve 15 months in prison.
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A California federal judge ordered Vyvianna Quinonez,29, to serve 15 months in prison in addition to paying $33,000 in restitution and fines for the attack plus undergoing anger management courses. Quinonez is also banned from flying on commercial flights for three years once she’s released from federal prison.
On May 23, 2021, Quinonez was approached by the flight attendant and told to buckle her seatbelt, put away her tray table, and fix her facemask as the plane was preparing for landing in San Diego from Sacramento.
“Last year, Quinonez pleaded guilty to one count of interference with flight crew members and attendants, admitting that she assaulted a flight attendant by punching her in the face and head with a closed fist and grabbing her hair.”
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“Violence on aircraft endangers the lives of all onboard. Attacks on flight crew members, who perform vital jobs to ensure passenger safety, will not be tolerated. We will pursue criminal charges against those who violate the law both at the airport and aboard aircraft while in flight.” said U.S. Attorney Randy Grossman
An altercation between Quinonez and the flight attendant took place and another passenger recorded the fight. Quinonez could be seen pulling the woman’s hair and then punching her repeatedly. Federal authorities said the victim suffered three chipped teeth and she was required to get crowns. Additionally, she needed stitches for a cut under her eye as reported by Yahoo! News.
“The plea agreement states Quinonez began filming the flight attendant on her cellphone and pushed the flight attendant. Quinonez admitted she stood up and intentionally assaulted the flight attendant. The assault was captured on video by another passenger sitting a few rows ahead of Quinonez. Several passengers attempted to stop Quinonez by grabbing at her clothing and arms. Court documents state that the passenger sitting directly in front of Quinonez told investigators that she believed she “softened the blows” by grabbing Quinonez’s arm. A male passenger sitting nearby jumped between Quinonez and the flight attendant, instructing Quinonez to sit down.”
“Today’s sentence should send a very strong message to air travelers the FBI will vigorously pursue anyone who assaults or interferes with flight crews. I want to thank the Port of San Diego Harbor Police, the San Diego Airport Authority, the Federal Aviation Administration, the Transportation Security Administration, Southwest Airlines, and the United States Attorney’s Office for their collaboration and partnership in bringing this case to a resolution.” said special agent Stacey Moy.
Southwest Airlines also issued a statement regarding the case and said they are maintaining their “zero tolerance” policy for any attacks on their employees.
“This horrible incident was completely unacceptable, and the Court’s sentencing decision further emphasizes that unruly behavior will not be tolerated.”