Ex-Alaska Airlines pilot Joseph Emerson released from custody

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Joseph Emerson, the Ex-Alaskan Airlines pilot who was arrested after allegedly attempting to shut off a plane mid-flight, was released from custody Thursday.

According to the terms of his release, he will be allowed to return to his home in California while awaiting trial.

Emerson’s wife, Sarah Stretch was in the courtroom and let out a sigh of relief the second his release was announced.

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“I’m just glad this is happening. He deserves to be home right now,” said Stretch.

He was released on $50,000 security and it is required that Emerson cannot possess or use any controlled substance, including alcohol, he must submit to drug tests, he cannot be within 30 feet of any operable aircraft and he must participate in mental health counseling.

A Multnomah County jury already decided not to charge Emerson with attempted murder charges for the late October incident, instead only charging him with just 83 counts of recklessly endangering an aircraft.

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Stretch said Emerson’s release comes as a major relief her and her sons, but disclosed she feels for the passengers onboard that Horizon flight.

“I’m sad that this situation had to happen to my husband and to these people that are affected,” Stretch emphasized. “But I know that this has created a movement and momentum to help thousands of other pilots.”

Emerson’s attorneys told KOIN 6 News they have already posted bail and he is expected to be released Thursday afternoon. But per the conditions he cannot fly. So he and his wife will instead drive back to California.

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