Wife: JetBlue pilot not "intentionally violent"

(CBS/AP) NEW YORK - The wife of the JetBlue pilot whose frightening behavior forced an emergency landing says the family believes he wasn't "intentionally violent toward anyone."

Connye Osbon released her statement Sunday through the airline, asking media to respect the family's privacy. She says the family is focused on his recovery and won't be giving interviews.

Pilot Clayton Osbon became increasingly incoherent on a Tuesday flight from New York to Las Vegas. Co-pilot Jason Dowd locked him out of the cockpit and he was restrained by passengers. The plane landed in Texas.

Connye Osbon thanked the crew and passengers for the "effective yet compassionate handling of the situation."

In a statement released by the family Sunday and posted on the JetBlue website, Osbon wrote, "It is our belief, as Clayton's family, that while he was clearly distressed, he was not intentionally violent toward anyone. We know you were placed in an awful situation and we appreciate your ability to respond professionally."

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She also thanked doctors and staff at Northwest Texas Healthcare System in Amarillo, "as well as the many friends, coworkers, and loved ones who have reached out to us to wish Clayton well during this challenging time."

"We hope you can empathize and understand that our focus completely surrounds Clayton's recovery and the path that lies immediately ahead," she said.

JetBlue said Friday that the crew also was declining to speak publicly about the event.

[AnnieDanny]

That's really nice of her to make a public statement. I did wonder what happened; it was an unusual incident and it seemed that he was not well. I do pray for the best outcome for this family.

[forumcomments]

It was terrible to hear such a negative comment by a host on the Country Music Awards show last night regarding this situation and pilots in general.

[themanfrombrum]

Mrs Osbon, wishing your family well for your husband's recovery. May he get the right treatment. Our family has been through a similar experience. You don't know what has hit you when your family member suddenly becomes mentally ill. And don't worry about those heartless, compassionless, and venomous rogues out there who are so condemning. What happened to your husband could very well happen to them.

[longtree-2009]

he's not entitled to privacy. he could have crashed the plane killing all due to his mental and delusional breakdown. he should never ever be allowed to fly a commercial aircraft nor carry any passengers even in a small plane. there is no guarantee he won't flip out again.

[lewmal]

exactly!!! where did he learn about alquaeda

[prwagner3]

I still want to know what was wrong with him.

[Skruffy1]

This guy should NOT be prosecuted. But you can bet he's retiring.

[JamesBrown22]

Just think if he had a gun. I agree with the FAA, the best protection is a STRONG cockpit door.