Lawrence Wells, 54, was arrested on Wednesday, December 16, by FBI agents in connection with an assault that occurred on a flight earlier this year.

A federal grand jury returned an indictment against Wells on one count of assault causing serious bodily injury while on an aircraft.

Wells, originally from the Bay Area, is expected to appear in the U.S. District Court in Los Angeles for his initial court appearance.

According to the indictment, Wells choked and punched the victim after the flight left Los Angeles bound for San Francisco. Approximately 10 minutes after departure the caption declared an emergency and returned to Los Angeles where federal agents and Los Angeles Airport police were waiting and arrested Wells.

If Wells is convicted he could face a maximum of 10 years in prison.

Federal offenses are serious crimes that can carry sentences longer than criminal charges in state courts. It is important to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney if you are being investigated for or charged with a federal crime.

Ronald G. Brower has been practicing criminal law for over three decades and handles a wide range of criminal matters, including federal crimes. His office can be reached at 714-997-4400.