PORTLAND, OR -- The off-duty pilot accused of trying to shut down the engines of a Horizon Air flight now faces federal charges. During his initial appearance in Multnomah County Court, Joseph Emerson’s attorney spoke on his behalf, entering not guilty pleas on all counts. 

Emerson faces more than 80 counts of Attempted Murder, among other state charges, in connection with the Sunday evening incident on a plane bound for San Francisco. It was diverted to Portland after Emerson allegedly tried to pull the engine fire extinguishers. The pilots subdued him and he was restrained in the rear of the plane, where he reportedly tried to open the emergency exit before the aircraft landed.

According to court documents, he later admitted to using psychedelic mushrooms, although the timeline is unclear. Investigators reported Emerson told them he suffered from depression, and it was his "first time" taking psilocybin.

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office says he’s been on suicide watch since shortly after booking early Monday. 

Judge Jenna Plank told Emerson and his attorney Tuesday, "I am finding, based on the declarations in this document, that there is probable cause to believe that defendant has committed one of the offenses." Because of that, she ordered him held without bail, "I will not be addressing release or the setting of security today. Instead, Mr. Emerson, your case will be qualified for what I’m going to describe as a more robust release hearing that will take place at the courthouse across the street. You have a statutory right to have that hearing within five days of today."

Federal prosecutors filed documents Tuesday also charging Emerson with Interfering With a Flight Crew. His appearance in federal court has not been announced. 

file photo