Originally Posted by ualratt

On Dec 17, 2011, at 9:27 PM, XXXX wrote:

You may remember that Captain John Rood was arrested late last year while in the execution of his duties as pilot in command of a United flight from Denver to Boston. He was falsely accused of assault by a Denver Customer Service Representative, and improperly charged with creating a disturbance by the Denver Police when he removed himself from the flight.

Throughout the past year, Captain Rood has endeavored to defend himself against not only these criminal charges, but also further disciplinary action brought about by United Airlines.

Captain Rood, represented quite ably by Denver attorney Craig Truman, has appeared numerous times before the Denver Court. Plea deals were offered by the City Attorney; for instance, to drop the assault charge and plead guilty to Disturbance. Captain Rood, under advice of counsel, rejected all offers while moving towards a jury trial where he could clear his reputation, and maintain the premise of Captain’s Authority.

Further complicating the case was the refusal by United to answer subpoenas issued by the City Attorney. Mr. Truman had been led to believe that there was further video evidence that would clear Captain Rood of the charges, and at one point, United admitted that there was indeed other video evidence. United’s reluctance to comply with the subpoenas actually resulted in the Denver Court issuing an “order to show cause” on September 16th of this year. Basically, the Company had to “show cause” why it shouldn’t be held in contempt of court for refusing to comply with the subpoenas. At the “Show Cause” hearing on October 28th, United still did not answer the court’s request and again did not provide the requested video evidence.

At this point, the Denver City Attorney, realizing the lack of corroborating evidence for an assault charge, and giving some credence to Captain’s Authority, decided to dismiss the charges, due to the unlikelihood of success at trial. It also seemed that the Denver City Attorney felt it was pointless to hold United responsible for the subpoenaed evidence.

This successful outcome was due in large part to the efforts and advice of criminal defense attorney Craig Truman, a former Air Force officer, and an aviation enthusiast, whom Captain Rood was very fortunate to have come across. Craig, who usually handles more serious charges such as murder, is a highly respected member of the Denver bar. What's more, Craig is so highly accomplished that when judges and congressmen need legal representation, they go to Craig.

His presence in the courtroom was acknowledged immediately by other attorneys, prosecutors, clerks, and even the judge. The respect commanded by this gentleman was clearly evident, and Captain Rood was honored and fortunate to have him as his representative in court.

While this battle has been won, the struggle continues. Captain Rood was the subject of disciplinary charges by United, and is still in the process of addressing these charges through Section 17 of the CBA. Currently, this process is on hold pending further evaluations.

Throughout this debacle, Captain Rood has tried to take the high road while defending himself legally and with the Company. The actions taken by others have not been so honorable, seeking to diminish our profession through illegal actions, and outright fabrication of false information.

Thanks to every one of you who has shown their support for Captain Rood while he has endeavored to clear his name and reputation. As pilots, ours is a noble profession that requires a commitment of morality to those we fly in our airplanes. Our profession is envied by most, and attacked by others who seek to diminish us, individually and as a group. It is worth fighting for, and we must continue to take the high road in its defense.

Happy Holidays All!!!!