Washington: An Indian software consultant, on a work visa in the US, was convicted by a Chicago court of groping a woman while they were seated next to each other aboard an airplane.
Srinivasa S Erramilli, 45, remains free on bond pending sentencing, which has been set for April 26, 2013, by US District Judge Joan H Lefkow.
He faces a maximum sentence of two years in prison and a USD 250,000 fine. Incidentally he was convicted twice previously for nearly identical crimes.
Evidence at the trial showed that Erramilli was the last passenger to board a Southwest Airlines flight to Chicago's Midway Airport on June 14, 2011, and was seated in the only open seat available between the victim, who had chosen a window seat to sleep during the flight, and her husband, who had chosen an aisle seat to enable easier access during the flight.
The couple had travelled to Las Vegas for their 34th wedding anniversary, the Department of Justice said in a statement.
The victim testified that Erramilli groped her three times aboard the plane.
14/12/12 Indian Express
