A student pilot from Florida has pleaded guilty to stealing a private aircraft and flying it across state lines, an act that could result in a decade-long prison sentence. Rufus Crane, 27, admitted to the unauthorized interstate transportation of a stolen aircraft after taking a plane from Perry, Georgia, and flying it to North Carolina before returning.
Crane faces up to ten years in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release and may be fined up to $250,000. The case is overseen by U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell with sentencing set for September 17. In the federal system, parole is not available.
Acting U.S. Attorney C. Shanelle Booker highlighted the dangers posed by Crane’s actions: “By choosing to steal a single-engine aircraft and fly to North Carolina—making landings at several regional airports along the way—the defendant put his own life and the lives of others at risk, despite not being fully trained or holding a pilot’s license.” Booker also praised the investigative efforts of local police and federal partners.
Captain James Jones of the Perry Police Department echoed these concerns about public safety risks: “The theft and unauthorized operation of an aircraft is not just a property crime—it’s a serious threat to public safety.” He commended Detective Ike Wilcox for his work on the case.
Joseph Harris from the U.S. Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General emphasized collaboration with law enforcement: “We’re committed to working closely with our law enforcement, agency and prosecutorial partners to pursue those whose actions endanger lives.”
Court documents reveal that Crane stole a Bonanza A-36 aircraft on May 4, 2024. Lacking proper credentials or permission, he flew it first to Waxhaw, North Carolina, then back towards Georgia. Due to foggy conditions upon returning to Perry Airport on May 5th, he diverted briefly before safely landing later that morning.
During these flights conducted without proper endorsements or licenses—and in violation of aviation safety regulations—Crane operated under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) while keeping critical transponder equipment off.
The investigation was led by the U.S. Department of Transportation alongside local authorities with support from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Howard is handling prosecution duties for this case.
