Lake Mary (32746) – Shocking Scandal: Spirit Airlines Pilot Removed from Duty After Stalking Charges Involving Two Children – FEDERAL PROBE UNDERWAY

Lake Mary (32746) – A Spirit Airlines pilot has been removed from active duty after authorities charged him with stalking two children, triggering outrage and alarm across the aviation and travel communities. The suspect, identified as Capt. Mark Preston, 45, of Orlando, was arrested earlier this week following a months-long investigation by the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office, which alleges that Preston engaged in “repeated and targeted harassment” of two minors, ages 12 and 14, who lived near his suburban home.

According to court documents, Preston followed the children on multiple occasions—on foot and in his vehicle—took covert photos, and left handwritten notes near their bus stop. Investigators say the behavior escalated, prompting the children’s parents to install surveillance cameras, which ultimately captured the suspect’s movements. Preston, who has no prior criminal record, was arrested without incident and released on bond under conditions that bar contact with minors.

Spirit Airlines confirmed that Preston has been suspended indefinitely pending the outcome of the criminal case, adding in a statement that the allegations are “deeply disturbing and not representative of our values.” The FAA has also launched a parallel safety review, as Preston had logged hundreds of flight hours with the airline over the past decade.

Key Facts

• BREAKING: Spirit Airlines pilot charged with stalking two children in Florida

• IMPACT: Two minors harassed; pilot removed from flight duty; federal review initiated

• OFFICIAL SOURCE: “This behavior is inexcusable and under investigation.” – Spirit Airlines spokesperson

• ACTION: Parents urged to report suspicious adult behavior around children to local law enforcement

Hyperlocal Impact

1. Precise Location:
   Lake Mary (32746) – Near W Lake Mary Blvd and Longwood Lake Mary Rd

2. Community Connection:
   “We trusted this guy flew planes, and now he’s accused of watching kids? It’s sickening.”
   – Heather McGowan, parent and resident in the same subdivision

Exclusive Angle

• WHY THIS MATTERS NOW:
  The case intensifies national scrutiny over background checks for commercial pilots, especially as airlines face staffing shortages and fast-track hiring pipelines. Preston passed multiple FAA medical and security clearances while allegedly engaging in predatory behavior off-duty.

Update Log

• 7:30 AM: Seminole County deputies arrest Preston at his residence

• 10:15 AM: Spirit Airlines confirms pilot removed from active flight roster

• 12:40 PM: FAA initiates independent review of Preston’s certification and flight history