Military Officer's Wedding Gown Stolen at Airport on Return from Overseas Deployment

An Army officer experienced a heartbreaking loss when her wedding dress was taken at an airport. Amber Oglesby was returning home from her deployment in Kosovo for Thanksgiving when she discovered that her carry-on luggage had disappeared at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport.

The missing bag contained Oglesbys wedding gown, which she had purchased while stationed overseas, as well as her passport and identification cards.

Oglesby was greeted at the airport by her fianc, Cody Aelum, and their 1-year-old daughter. While Aelum loaded their bags into the car and Oglesby embraced her daughter, the carry-on bag went unnoticed until they arrived home.

It had more sentimental value than anything. I had been looking forward to bringing it home and sharing this special moment with my family, Oglesby said.

Thanks to an AirTag placed in her luggage, Oglesby initially tracked the bag to an airport employee parking area. The following day, the tracker indicated a residence in Kenner, Louisiana.

The Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office arrested the suspect, identified as 59-year-old Jesus Orellana Castillo, a contract employee at the airport, on theft charges.

Oglesby shared that the stolen items had been discarded, describing the situation as a gut punch. She added, Its disappointing and sad. Many things can be replaced, but the sentiment behind them cannot.

Aelum expressed similar feelings, stating, Its unfortunate, and its shocking that someone would do something like this.

An airport spokesperson confirmed that Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport prioritizes safety and security for passengers, staff, and facilities, and expects contracted personnel to adhere to these standards. After learning of the theft, airport authorities reviewed surveillance footage, identified the suspect, and collaborated with the sheriffs office to assist in the investigation.

Meanwhile, Town & Country Bridal in New Orleans has generously offered Oglesby a replacement wedding dress. She visited the shop to explore potential options on December 5.

Author: Jackson Miller