ARLINGTON, Va. — A physical altercation erupted between two air traffic controllers at Reagan National Airport, culminating in misdemeanor assault charges for one of the employees. According to available information, the conflict was sparked by a discussion related to former President Donald Trump’s opposition to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) hiring initiatives.
Damon Gaines, an air traffic controller, is facing assault and battery charges stemming from a March incident at the airport’s control tower. He is scheduled to appear before a judge to determine the next steps in his case. His lawyer, Robert Jenkins, stated that the argument arose after Gaines’s coworker made comments regarding Trump’s stance against DEI policies, which Gaines found offensive.
Reports indicate that tensions escalated when the coworker implied that Gaines’s competency was tied to DEI hiring practices, deepening Gaines’s frustration. Through his legal representative, Gaines expressed remorse over the altercation, noting that he regretted not finding a more constructive way to address the disagreement.
While both individuals reportedly exchanged blows, Jenkins confirmed that each acted as an aggressor during the incident. Following the altercation, law enforcement was summoned, resulting in Gaines receiving a summons for assault and battery. Additionally, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) implemented a 45-day unpaid suspension.
Despite this setback, Jenkins noted that Gaines has since returned to work after the FAA concluded its investigation, which highlighted his excellent record over his 15 years with the agency. This incident marks the first disciplinary action taken against him.
Currently, operations in the DCA control tower have reportedly returned to normal, with all parties involved maintaining professional relationships. However, attention remains focused on Gaines’s impending court appearance, as the outcome may have repercussions for his career in air traffic control.
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