MD Man Who Punched Flight Agent At VA Airport Pleads Guilty

DULLES, VA — A 54-year-old Maryland man pleaded guilty in federal court Thursday to interfering with security screening personnel, according to court records. He was arrested in March for punching a gate agent at Washington Dulles International Airport.

After consuming multiple alcoholic beverages on March 13, Christopher Stuart Crittenden of Frederick, became irate about the delay of a flight and his seating assignment, court records say.

“Crittenden shouted expletives at a gate agent,” according to court documents. “The agent informed the flight captain, who was on the jet bridge, that Crittenden was likely inebriated and verbally harassing airline staff. The captain came to the gate to speak with Crittenden and ultimately informed him that he could not fly on the aircraft.”

It was at that point that Crittenden punched the agent in the face, temporarily knocking him out, authorities say. Crittenden also tried to punch another gate agent, but that gate agent was able to avoid the assault.

Crittenden is due back in court on Oct. 9, when he faces a possible sentence of up to 10 years in prison.