Fort Lauderdale‑Hollywood International Airport was the scene of a disturbing incident on Tuesday morning when a visibly intoxicated man deliberately urinated on a traveling family. The incident occurred around 11:38 a.m. near Gate E6 in Terminal 3.
Arrest and Charges
Broward County sheriff’s deputies responded quickly, arresting 48‑year‑old Lawrence Kai Raben on the spot. Raben, a Fort Lauderdale resident, was taken to the Broward County Main Jail with a bond set at $5,000.
According to the arrest report, Raben pulled up a seat directly opposite a family of three, unbuttoned his pants, and began urinating in their direction. The father managed to avoid the stream, but the mother and her 7‑year‑old son were struck by the urine.
Raben now faces three counts of indecent exposure, disorderly intoxication, misdemeanor battery, and a third‑degree felony battery charge for causing a minor to come into contact with bodily fluids. Under Florida law, the felony carries up to five years in prison, five years of probation, and a $5,000 fine. An indecent exposure conviction involving a child can result in a life‑sentence.
Background
Court records show this is not Raben’s first encounter with law enforcement. In 2011 he was charged with domestic battery, entered a no‑contest plea, and received probation along with a requirement to complete an intervention program.
Investigators have not determined why Raben chose to urinate in the concourse instead of using an airport restroom, nor whether he had a ticket for a flight.
Public Safety Reminder
Airport officials remind travelers to report any suspicious or disruptive behavior to security personnel promptly. The incident underscores the importance of maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all passengers, especially families traveling with children.
Original reporting: Tampa Free Press — read the source article.
