A deputy US marshal accused of being drunk on a flight to Heathrow appeared in court today (8 December).

Michael Brereton, 39, was arrested by Metropolitan Police officers at Heathrow Airport on Wednesday following reports of a man being disruptive on an inbound Delta aircraft.

He had been on his way to London to transport a suspect back to the US.

Brereton, from Staten Island, New York, was later charged with entering an aircraft whilst intoxicated.

He appeared in custody at Uxbridge Magistrates' Court in north west London.

Brereton spoke only to confirm his name, address, and date of birth, and to enter his "not guilty" plea.

District Judge Kathryn Verghis granted him unconditional bail until his trial.

She explained: "I am not imposing any conditions for bail, firstly, because of your good character, and secondly, because, given your profession, if you do not return, the outcome will be very serious for you."

Brereton was told he will face trial at the same court on 1 February 2024.

When he was arrested on Wednesday, another deputy marshal onboard the plane was also briefly detained - but has since been released and returned to the US, according to an official.

Brereton was also initially arrested on suspicion of sexual assault, but the Met Police said that no further action will be taken following further enquiries.

In a statement, a spokesperson for the US Marshal Service said it takes allegations of misconduct by its employees seriously and is cooperating with the investigation by UK law enforcement.

A representative for the US Embassy was also present in court.

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