Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrain has publicly demanded that a Honduran man accused of threatening to blow up a New Orleans‑bound passenger plane be prosecuted and sentenced in state court before any deportation occurs. The suspect, 34‑year‑old Rony Alexander Gomez‑Alberto, was arrested after United Airlines Flight 2174 landed safely at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport on Monday night.
Details of the alleged threat
According to airline and law‑enforcement reports, the aircraft carried 46 passengers and six crew members. During the flight, Gomez‑Alberto allegedly told crew members that he possessed a bomb and attempted to enter the cockpit. Federal authorities say he was taken into custody by deputies after the plane touched down.
State charges and bond amounts
The Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office booking information lists two felony counts: terrorizing and communicating false information about a planned arson, both dated Nov. 10, with a $500,000 bond on each. A separate fugitive charge carries no bond, and a simple escape charge dated Nov. 11 carries a $10,000 bond. The booking sheet does not elaborate on the circumstances behind the escape charge.
Immigration background
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) placed a detainer on Gomez‑Alberto on Nov. 10. ICE records show he was previously deported after border encounters in 2011 and 2014, and again after an illegal entry through California in 2019. A later immigration judge granted him asylum following his third attempted illegal entry, according to Department of Homeland Security statements cited by Fox News.
Murrain’s position
“As he has previously been deported multiple times yet still illegally returned and stayed in our country before threatening to blow up a plane, he should first be charged and tried,” Murrain said. “Only after he serves time in jail, if he is convicted, should he then be deported.” The attorney general offered the state’s support and assistance to local prosecutors pursuing the charges.
Why the call matters
Murrain’s stance underscores a broader concern among state officials that federal immigration actions should not preempt state criminal proceedings, especially in cases involving public safety threats. By insisting on a trial and possible imprisonment first, the Louisiana Attorney General aims to ensure accountability and deterrence for violent threats, while still respecting the legal process for removal.
Community response
Local leaders and law‑enforcement officials have expressed relief that the flight landed safely and praised the swift response of deputies who apprehended the suspect. No injuries were reported, and the incident has reignited discussions about airport security and the coordination between federal and state authorities in handling terrorism‑related threats.
Next steps
The case now moves to the Jefferson Parish criminal courts, where prosecutors will decide whether to pursue the felony charges. If convicted, Gomez‑Alberto could face significant prison time before any immigration proceedings resume. The Attorney General’s office will monitor the case closely and continue to work with local law‑enforcement to protect the safety of Louisiana’s air travelers.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
