Local

Charlotte flight diverted after woman says she was groped by passenger

TULSA, OKLAHOMA — A man is facing charges after a woman said he touched her inappropriately during an American Airlines flight out of Charlotte on Tuesday.

James Cholewinski was charged Friday in federal court for criminal sexual misconduct. He has also been charged with public intoxication.

The situation caused pilots to ground the plane early, according to officials.

Flight 807 took off Tuesday from Charlotte and was bound for Salt Lake City before the disruption.

[ALSO READ: American Airlines flight attendant exposes dozens of passengers to hepatitis A]

A police report said the woman claimed Cholewinski, who was sitting next to her, touched her inappropriately multiple times and grabbed her.

The captain had to move the woman and her daughter to another seat.

Airline officials said the flight was diverted to Tulsa, Oklahoma, where officers were waiting to remove and arrest Cholewinski.

(Cholewinski)

The flight then continued to Utah.

According to the report, Cholewinski's eyes were bloodshot and watery and his speech was slurred.

"I am thankful for the men and women of law enforcement who work to ensure the safety and security of the traveling public," U.S. Attorney Trent Shores of the Northern District of Oklahoma said in a statement.

The FBI will continue to investigate.

Check back with wsoctv.com for updates on this story.