A man, identified as Ramiz Idrizi, aged 38, has been found guilty of several offenses, including attempting to sexually assault a minor under the age of 13 following an easyJet flight. It was disclosed during a disputed hearing at Ballymena Magistrates Court that Idrizi had consumed the majority of the five miniature wine bottles he had purchased on the flight from Paris to Belfast International on November 14.
Although Idrizi was acquitted of one count of assaulting a woman, he was convicted of attempting to sexually assault her daughter and physically assaulting a male passenger who had confronted him. Additionally, Idrizi admitted to being intoxicated on the aircraft and using abusive language towards the cabin crew.
Eyewitnesses testified that as the flight was nearing its destination, a woman reported that Idrizi was disturbing her by kicking her seat. At one point, Idrizi made inappropriate remarks and attempted to touch the young girl, prompting her to move away.
Another passenger seated in the same row noticed the uncomfortable situation and offered to switch seats with them. He confronted Idrizi about his behavior, leading to Idrizi making derogatory remarks. Witnesses further mentioned Idrizi exhibiting disturbing behavior, such as spitting and speaking inappropriately.
The cabin crew intervened by ceasing alcohol service and addressing Idrizi’s behavior. Despite being asked to comply, Idrizi refused to surrender his remaining wine or change seats, resulting in the relocation of nearby passengers. Witnesses observed Idrizi becoming aggressive towards the aircraft’s structure as it prepared to land.
During his testimony, Idrizi admitted to using offensive language towards the passenger but denied attempting to touch the girl. He also denied engaging in disruptive behavior. District Judge Nigel Broderick, after reviewing the evidence provided by various witnesses, including passengers and cabin crew, found their testimonies to be credible and reliable.
Judge Broderick announced guilty verdicts and decided to obtain a report before sentencing. Idrizi was released on bail, with the case scheduled for further proceedings on April 28.
