Selma Blair, a 54-year-old actress, was taken into custody following an incident on a Delta Air Lines flight from Los Angeles to New York. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey reported that Blair was accused of injuring two flight attendants and was subsequently charged with assaulting a police officer and a nurse.
The arrest occurred around 11 p.m. ET at John F. Kennedy Airport in New York when the plane was at the gate. Both Blair and one of the flight attendants were transported to the hospital for evaluation.
According to charging documents, a police officer stated that while securing Blair to a stretcher, she kicked repeatedly, causing significant pain and swelling. Subsequently, a nurse was also kicked in the chest, resulting in substantial pain.
Blair appeared in court in Queens, wearing handcuffs and a white hooded sweatshirt, where her attorney explained that her actions were not intentional. He mentioned that Blair, who has multiple sclerosis, had missed several doses of essential medication, leading to severe neurological symptoms.
The judge set Blair’s bail at $20,000 cash or $60,000 bond US, scheduling the next hearing for January. Delta Air Lines emphasized its zero-tolerance policy for disruptive behavior, prioritizing the safety of passengers and crew.
During the flight, the pilot requested medical personnel at the gate to treat Blair’s injuries, including bite marks and a bloody nose. The pilot also mentioned the need for potential medical evaluation and involvement of law enforcement.
This incident is not the first involving Blair on an aircraft. In a previous incident in 2016, Blair apologized for inappropriate behavior on a flight due to a mix of alcohol and medication, causing her to black out. Despite past challenges, Blair has become an advocate for disability rights after being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2018.