Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers at Lancaster Airport intercepted a handgun at the security checkpoint on September 22. The 9mm firearm was loaded with seven bullets, including one in the chamber. An additional gun magazine loaded with eight additional bullets was packed alongside the firearm.
The weapon was caught as the man, a resident of Reading, Pa., entered the security checkpoint. The X-ray unit alerted on the firearm, which was in the man’s carry-on bag. TSA officials notified the Manheim Township Police, who allowed the man to return his gun to his vehicle. This individual now faces a stiff financial civil penalty. Civil penalties for carrying weapons can reach a maximum of $15,000.
“Bringing loaded guns to checkpoints is a serious security violation and this individual can expect to receive a federal fine that will be in the thousands of dollars,” said Karen Keys-Turner, TSA’s Federal Security Director for the airport. “Individuals are responsible for the contents of their baggage. TSA has been in existence since shortly after the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on our nation and people should know that they cannot bring a firearm or any other prohibited item onto a plane.”