Originally Posted by Hotel Tango
Incidentally, I very much doubt that this CC was following a direct order from the Captain. More like his own initiative.
It doesn't have to be a direct or relayed order from the captain, provided that the authority of the captain, as granted by the ANO, is devolved to the cabin crew who may act upon their own initiative.
Make no mistake, if the CC consider ANYTHING may constitute a hazard to the aircraft, and that may include further provoking a drunken passenger, they are justified in taking such measures as they see fit to contain the situation and, as captain, I would back them up.
Remember: this is in an aircraft in flight; it is not in a bar.
I'd appreciate Flying Lawyer's comment.