An American Airlines worker at Charlotte Douglas International Airport found himself in handcuffs Wednesday after a text to a coworker claimed there was a bomb in an elevator, then tried to pass it off as a joke. The employee, identified in court filings as Christian Michael Cox, allegedly wrote, "dont be hero got bomb in the elevator rn," before sending a follow-up message saying he was kidding. Cox was charged with making a false bomb report in a public building, posted $10,000 bond, and is scheduled to return to court Thursday afternoon.
According to court filings reviewed by Queen City News, Cox admitted sending the message and "said it was intended as a joke." The documents include the text exchange a coworker received, along with a later follow-up that reads, "im jp (just joking it was joke btw (by the way)." Police responded to Charlotte Douglas after the coworker reported the messages.
What the law says
Under N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-69.1, knowingly making a false report about a destructive device where none exists is a Class H felony when the report targets a public building. A second conviction within five years can bring tougher penalties. The statute also allows courts to order restitution for costs and consequential damages that result from a bogus report. Prosecutors will decide how to handle Cox’s case as it moves through district court.
Airport access and next steps
Court documents say both Cox and the coworker who received the text work in positions that require access to the secured side of the airport’s baggage area, a detail that shaped how investigators responded. Cox posted $10,000 bond and is expected back in court Thursday afternoon, according to Queen City News. The outlet reported it contacted American Airlines to confirm Cox’s current employment status, but the airline had not released a public statement as of publication.
What to watch
For now, all eyes are on future Mecklenburg County court filings for any change to the charges or Cox’s bond conditions, and on whether American Airlines or Charlotte-Mecklenburg police decide to issue a public statement. The case is a pointed reminder that so-called jokes about bombs can carry real criminal consequences and potential restitution, even when the sender tries to walk them back after hitting send.
