A Newport man pleaded guilty Oct. 21 to one count of simple assault involving a 16-year-old on a flight from Tampa to Providence, according to the U.S. attorney's office in Rhode Island.
James F. Brugman, 54, entered the plea before U.S. District Judge Melissa DuBose. Prosecutors say the conduct occurred during a Nov. 17, 2025, flight.
Sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 21, 2027. The judge will determine the sentence after considering the federal sentencing guidelines and other legal factors.
The FBI and Federal Air Marshal Service investigated. The case is being prosecuted by First Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Calenda and Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie White.
Sources: Newport Man Pleads Guilty to Simple Assault of a Minor During Flight from Florida to Rhode Island.