Philly Officer Slain in Line of Duty Promoted to Sergeant at Funeral

PHILADELPHIA — Thousands of law enforcement officers from across the country gathered in Philadelphia on Tuesday to remember Shane Seiber, the officer who was...
HomeUSBoston Dad Convicted of Sexually Abusing Teen on Flight With Family

Boston Dad Convicted of Sexually Abusing Teen on Flight With Family

A Boston-area father has been convicted of repeatedly touching a teenage girl inappropriately during a JetBlue flight.

Jonathan Alan Lefman, 48, was found guilty following a three-day jury trial of sexually abusing a 17-year-old girl who was seated in front of him on an August 2024 flight from Puerto Rico to Boston, the US Attorney’s Office in Massachusetts announced Thursday.

Jonathan Alan Lefman, 48, of Newton, Massachusetts, was convicted of touching a 17-year-old girl aboard a flight from Puerto Rico to Boston in August 2024, as of Oct. 16, 2026. DOJ District of Massachusetts

According to prosecutors, Lefman was traveling with his wife and four children when he reached his hand between the back and bottom of the girl’s seat and touched her buttocks without her consent.

The teenager noticed Lefman’s reflection leaning between the seats on the seatback monitor in front of her. Officials said she was also able to photograph his fingers protruding between the back and bottom of her seat.

Jonathan Alan Lefman wearing a baseball cap and glasses outside court.

Jonathan Alan Lefman is seen outside court in February 2025. WCVB Channel 5 Boston

Lefman, who lives in Newton, was convicted on one count of abusive sexual contact within the special aircraft jurisdiction. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 12, 2027.

“The defendant repeatedly sexually abused a minor who was simply trying to travel safely aboard a commercial flight,” US Attorney Leah B. Foley said in a statement.

“No one should have to fear being sexually assaulted, whether in the air or on the ground. Today’s verdict holds the defendant accountable for his disturbing conduct and sends a clear message that those who prey on vulnerable passengers will face justice,” Foley said.