BALTIMORE, MD – An ordinary day took an unexpected turn for pilot TJ Turban as he prepared for a flight out of Martin State Airport. Upon arriving at the Gulfstream G4 jet, Turban was startled to find a stranger occupying the pilot’s seat, headset on and seemingly ready for takeoff.
The aircraft, owned by Sinclair Broadcast Group’s Executive Chairman David Smith, was in an unusual state with the auxiliary power unit running and all doors closed. Sensing something was amiss, Turban promptly alerted airport security, who then contacted the authorities. The intruder, identified as 43-year-old Joseph Goldman, fled the scene but was later apprehended by Baltimore County Police.
Goldman, no stranger to law enforcement, had a history of criminal activity. In 2016, he was arrested in Baltimore City for the sexual abuse of a child, a crime that spanned several years. During that investigation, police discovered illegal firearms and a silencer in his possession, leading to a one-year federal prison sentence.
The incident raised concerns about potential security threats. Although there was no evidence of explosives in Goldman’s vehicle, Maryland State Police conducted a thorough search. Turban’s quick actions may have prevented a crisis, as he found the right engine leaking fuel and critical switches in the cockpit improperly set.
Goldman now faces charges of theft, unlawful taking of a motor vehicle, trespassing, and entering a restricted area. He is currently held without bond and is due in court on Tuesday.