Ryanair Passenger Pleads Guilty After Drunken Sexual Assault on Flight Attendant
A Ryanair passenger has begged for forgiveness after sexually assaulting a flight attendant during a flight to Ireland. Aaron Brady, aged 31, admitted to the charge in court, expressing profound remorse for his actions, which he attributed to consuming a mind-boggling amount of alcohol before and during the journey.
Excessive Alcohol Consumption Preceded Assault
Taking the stand, Brady revealed he drank approximately five bottles of wine with his partner at the airport prior to boarding. Additionally, he consumed between 12 and 15 mini bottles of alcohol while on the inbound flight to Dublin Airport last year. This excessive intake left him heavily intoxicated, with witnesses noting slurred speech and drink stains on his clothing.
Details of the Disturbing Incident
The victim, a Ryanair stewardess, was taking a break in the crew area at the back galley when Brady approached. He initiated conversation with her and two colleagues, then placed his foot on her lap, which she pushed away. Noticing his drunken state, she became alarmed as Brady proceeded to feel the inside of her left leg over her clothing, grabbed her head, and kissed her cheek.
In a further shocking act, he moved her head towards his groin, making contact. The victim described being in shock as Brady began removing his top before retreating to the toilet. Upon returning, he hugged her and placed his hand on her outer thigh, rubbing it and her buttocks over her clothing. She pushed him away and alerted the captain, who reported the disruptive passenger to authorities on the ground.
Victim's Lasting Trauma and Resignation
In a victim impact statement read to the court, the woman expressed that the assault has left a layer of shame over her, and she still feels disgusting. She stated, The road to recovery feels long and unreachable, adding that life has not been kind to her, and this incident is an extra heavy load. Originally passionate about flying, she has since resigned from Ryanair, noting, I was only doing my job when this happened.
She is currently on a waiting list to see a psychologist, experiencing intense panic, anxiety, and nightmares. Despite the trauma, she expressed relief that her voice is being heard and the defendant is being held accountable, hoping no one else endures such an ordeal.
Brady's Remorse and Legal Proceedings
Brady pleaded guilty and told the court he is really, really sorry, sincerely, describing his actions as out of character. He said, I can't believe it, I'm so sorry for the trauma it has caused you. It's not me at all. His defence counsel, Keith Spencer BL, highlighted the almost mind-boggling alcohol consumption and noted Brady is addressing his drinking problem, having abstained for a year.
Spencer presented mitigating factors, including an early guilty plea, Brady's work record at an ice cream factory, and a probation report. Brady offered €5,000 as a gesture of remorse, which the victim is willing to accept, and is prepared to repay her expenses, potentially saving another €5,000 with more time.
Court Adjournment and Bail Conditions
Judge Jonathan Dunphy adjourned the case to June for finalisation, allowing Brady to address the victim's expenses. He directed that the €5,000 be paid within 24 hours for onward transmission to the woman. The judge somewhat reluctantly remanded Brady on continuing bail so he could continue working, emphasizing the court's concern for the victim's losses.
Addressing the victim, Judge Dunphy expressed gratitude for her attendance and aims to finalise the case in the right way so everyone can move on. Garda Sinead Murphy reported that Brady was intoxicated and causing distress when arrested, resisting initially and requiring handcuffs. He was charged under the Air Navigation and Transport Act 1973.
Background and Previous Conviction
Brady has one previous conviction from 2016 for failing to report a hit and run, resulting in a €400 fine, involving a collision with a stationary vehicle with no other parties. It was accepted that he was unfit for questioning initially due to intoxication, and his partner, asleep during the flight, described the behaviour as out of character.
Brady, who plays for his local GAA senior team and has a history of depression, is not seeking to avoid responsibility. Spencer stated his client experiences extreme shame and is asking for the victim's forgiveness, acknowledging it may not be easy to give. The case continues as the community awaits the final sentencing.
