Migrant Claims Trans Identity to Avoid Deportation, Hijacks Plane
Honduran man accused of plane hijacking claims transgender status to avoid deportation, sparking legal and immigration debate.
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A Honduran man who allegedly attempted to hijack a United Airlines flight has claimed to be transgender to avoid deportation, according to law enforcement sources. Rony Alexander Gomez-Alberto, 37, was detained after trying to storm the cockpit of United Flight 2174, which was en route from Newark to New Orleans on Monday night.
A History of Illegal Entry and Asylum Claims
Gomez-Alberto first entered the U.S. illegally in 2011 and was deported. He attempted again in 2014, but was removed once more. His third attempt in 2019 at the San Ysidro port of entry led to a court case where he claimed to be transgender and feared persecution in his home country. Based on that claim, he was granted asylum in 2020.
During his asylum proceedings, he also disclosed to federal authorities that he was HIV positive and an avid marijuana user. These details were reportedly part of his case to justify his claim of being a victim of persecution.
Plane Hijacking and Legal Consequences
Gomez-Alberto was detained on the plane after the crew convinced him to move away from the cockpit, allowing the flight to land safely in New Orleans. Local authorities confirmed that he changed into all black before attempting to reach the cockpit, as per audio recordings from air traffic control.
Following the landing, he was arrested by local police and charged with communicating false information about planned arson and terrorizing. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has since requested that he be transferred to federal custody upon any future release, according to a Homeland Security spokesperson.
United Airlines stated that the flight landed safely after a disruptive incident involving a passenger, and law enforcement met the aircraft upon arrival. The case has raised questions about the legal process for asylum claims and the implications of such incidents on immigration enforcement.
Source: Daily Wire
