NORFOLK, Va.—A local resident was caught by the Transportation Security Administration with a loaded gun at a Norfolk International Airport checkpoint Saturday, August 4, marking the 15th firearm that TSA officers have caught at the airport so far this year, far exceeding the 10 that were caught during all 12 months of 2017.
The woman, a resident of Norfolk, Virginia, had received a “gate pass” from the airline to enable her to escort her father to his gate for his flight. But when she entered the checkpoint, TSA officers observed a .38 caliber handgun in her bag. It was loaded with six bullets, including one in the chamber.
Airport police were contacted, responded to the checkpoint and cited the woman on a weapons charge. Her interference with checkpoint procedures resulted in the temporary closure of the checkpoint while officials dealt with the loaded gun incident.
Number of firearms caught at the Norfolk International Airport Checkpoints
Norfolk International Airport | Number of Firearms TSA Stopped at Checkpoints |
2018 | 15 (as of 8-6-18) |
2017 | 10 |
2016 | 14 |
2015 | 16 |
2014 | 7 |
2013 | 7 |
As a reminder, individuals who bring weapons to a checkpoint are subject to federal civil penalties of up to $13,000. Even individuals with gun carry permits are not permitted to carry a gun past a TSA security checkpoint. A typical first offense for carrying a handgun into a checkpoint is $3,900. The complete list of penalties is posted online.