Stock image of a JetBlue plane. Photo Joe Raedle/Getty
A JetBlue pilot was taken into custody right before takeoff after officials discovered an active warrant for his arrest. Jeremy Gudorf, 33, was preparing to fly from Boston’s Logan International Airport to Paris on Feb. 20 when authorities stepped in.
Shocking Discovery Before Departure
Massachusetts State Police arrested Gudorf on the plane after U.S. Customs and Border Protection conducted a routine check of the flight crew. That’s when they found out he had an outstanding warrant in North Carolina.
According to reports, the warrant was issued on a charge of second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor. Gudorf was also charged in Massachusetts as a fugitive from justice.
Court Proceedings and Bail Conditions
Gudorf appeared in East Boston District Court the following day, where prosecutors requested he be held without bail and surrender his passport. His defense attorney, Tanvi Verma, argued that he had no criminal history and was willing to return to North Carolina on his own.
Despite this, the judge ordered him to be held on a $10,000 bail and required him to return to North Carolina by Feb. 25. A court hearing in Massachusetts is set for March 19 but could be waived if he clears his warrant before then.
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Investigation Behind the Warrant
Authorities in Huntersville, N.C., began investigating Gudorf in October 2024 after receiving a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. The investigation led to a search warrant for Google, which eventually helped police identify him as a suspect.
“Late last year, Google complied with the warrant and provided necessary records,” the Huntersville Police Department explained in a statement. Based on their findings, they secured an arrest warrant for Gudorf.
JetBlue’s Response
Following the arrest, JetBlue placed Gudorf on indefinite leave. “We are aware of and closely reviewing the arrest of one of our pilots,” the airline said. “The pilot has been placed on indefinite leave as law enforcement proceeds with the matter.”
What’s Next?
With his legal troubles unfolding, Gudorf must return to North Carolina to face charges. Until then, the case remains under investigation, and JetBlue passengers and employees alike await further developments.
