An Arkansas woman is suing Delta Air Lines and its subsidiary Endeavor Air for $2.35 million. The lawsuit stems from an incident that occurred during a 2019 flight, where her father was accused of human trafficking her. This accusation was made against Nicholas Cupp while flying with his daughter, Madison Cupp, who was only 13 years old at the time.
Background of the Incident
The flight in question occurred in December 2019, transporting the Cupp family from Atlanta to Newport News, Virginia. The aircraft encountered turbulence, which frightened Madison and resulted in her crying. Her father, sitting beside her, attempted to comfort her, an action that would later come under scrutiny.
False Accusation of Trafficking
According to the lawsuit filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, a flight attendant misinterpreted the situation. The attendant reportedly concluded, without evidence, that Nicholas was trafficking Madison. This wrongful assumption was communicated to Delta’s station manager in Newport News, leading to police involvement.
Police Involvement and Emotional Distress
Upon arrival, law enforcement officers were waiting for the family. They forcibly separated Madison from her parents and detained her father for questioning. Eventually, authorities found no probable cause to arrest Nicholas Cupp. However, the emotional impact on Madison was severe, causing her stomach pain, vomiting, and significant anxiety about future interactions with her father.
Legal Proceedings
Madison’s lawsuit accuses Delta and Endeavor of multiple charges, including negligence and wrongful imprisonment. The family has experienced lasting repercussions from the ordeal. Madison’s fear of public interaction with her father is a direct result of the false accusations.
The case took additional turns, with a previous lawsuit initiated by Nicholas Cupp being allowed to proceed this spring by the Virginia Supreme Court. Madison herself filed a separate case in December, seeking a jury trial.
Current Status of the Case
Delta Air Lines attempted to dismiss Madison’s lawsuit with a motion filed on June 3. The outcome of this ongoing legal battle remains uncertain as both sides prepare for potentially lengthy proceedings.
