It was an arrest that stunned even the most seasoned observers. Late last week, as a Delta flight from Minneapolis touched down at San Francisco International Airport, federal agents stormed the cockpit and took the co-pilot into custody. The 34-year-old was later identified as Indian American Rustom Bhagwagar from Florida.
The accused is now charged with 24 felony counts related to the sexual abuse of a minor. According to the Contra Costa County District Attorney, the abuse allegedly took place repeatedly between 2018 and 2023, starting when the girl was just six years old. The case turned even more disturbing when authorities claimed the child’s mother was not only aware of the abuse but allegedly present during some of the incidents. Both individuals are currently in custody — the co-pilot held on a $15 million bond as the investigation continues.
The case has sent shockwaves through communities and brought attention to the silent epidemic of child sexual abuse. Often, victims are too young to understand the abuse, let alone report it. In many instances, adults fail to act — whether out of fear, denial, or societal stigma. In the face of such silence, understanding one’s legal rights, protections, and responsibilities becomes crucial.
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To understand the legal protections victims are entitled to and the responsibilities society bears in recognizing and reporting such heinous crimes, The American Bazaar spoke to Chicago-based criminal defense lawyer Syed H. Hussain of Haseeb Legal LLC. With extensive experience in both criminal and immigration law, Hussain offers clarity on the law’s stance on child abuse, how such cases are built, and what justice looks like when the victim is a child.
The American Bazaar: What specific acts fall under “aggravated sexual assault of a child” and similar felony charges? How do age thresholds — such as under 10 or under 14, impact the nature and severity of these charges?
Syed H. Hussain: In most jurisdictions, aggravated sexual assault of a child involves any form of sexual penetration or contact with a child under a certain age, often 13 or 14. The age of the victim and the age difference between the victim and the accused can enhance the severity of the charge. For example, in Illinois, if the child is under 13 and the offender is over 17, it automatically qualifies as a Class X felony, which carries some of the harshest penalties under state law. Force or coercion isn’t always required; the mere fact of the child’s age can be enough.
What kinds of evidence are typically considered credible in cases involving minor victims? Especially in cases that rely heavily on testimony, what strengthens a case?
These cases often depend heavily on testimony from the child, but courts generally look for corroborating evidence wherever possible. This might include physical evidence (like forensic exams), digital records (texts, DMs, or photos), or testimony from third parties who noticed changes in behavior or heard disclosures. Courts are trained to evaluate child testimony carefully, especially considering developmental factors that affect memory, consistency, and understanding.
What is the legal liability for an adult who allegedly witnesses abuse or allows it without intervening? How does the law treat someone seen as complicit, even passively?
Liability here depends on the relationship and the duty owed. Certain professionals, like teachers, healthcare workers, and childcare providers — are mandated reporters, which means they’re legally required to report suspected abuse. Failing to do so can result in misdemeanor or even felony charges depending on the state. For others, liability may arise if they played a role in facilitating the abuse, even indirectly, or for example, by knowingly allowing contact between the abuser and the child.
What do ‘15 years to life’ sentences actually mean in practice? Are perpetrators eligible for early release or parole under certain circumstances?
This kind of sentence sets a minimum term (15 years) before someone becomes eligible for parole. Whether they’re released after that depends on a range of factors: the nature of the crime, their behavior in custody, statements from the victim or their family, and risk assessments. In reality, ‘to life’ can mean exactly that. Some people never make parole, especially in high-profile or particularly violent offenses.
What should communities know to better recognize red flags and protect children proactively?
There are usually behavioral changes in both victims and perpetrators that can raise concerns. For children, signs like withdrawal, fearfulness, regression, or inappropriate knowledge of sexual matters can be indicators. For adults, red flags might include efforts to isolate a child, favoritism, boundary violations, or secrecy. Most states have anonymous reporting hotlines, and many allow reports even without proof, just a reasonable suspicion. The goal is to err on the side of caution and let trained investigators take it from there.