CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Cabell County, West Virginia, man was stopped by Transportation Security Administration officers at Yeager Airport Monday, April 15, when they detected a loaded gun in the man’s carry-on bag. The 9 mm gun was loaded with eight bullets.
The man, a resident of Barboursville, West Virginia, told officials that he forgot that he had a loaded gun with him. TSA officials notified the Yeager Airport Police, who responded to the checkpoint, confiscated the gun and detained the man for questioning.
When an individual shows up at a checkpoint with a firearm, the checkpoint lane comes to a standstill until the police resolve the incident. Guns at checkpoints can delay travelers from getting to their gates.
Individuals who bring firearms to the checkpoint are subject to possible criminal charges from law enforcement. Even travelers with concealed carry permits are not allowed to bring guns past TSA checkpoints. In addition, TSA has the authority to access civil penalties of up to $13,000. A typical first offense for carrying a handgun into a checkpoint is $3,900. The complete list of penalties is posted online.
TSA’s website has details on how to properly travel with a firearm. Airlines may have additional requirements for traveling with firearms and ammunition. Travelers should also contact their airline regarding firearm and ammunition carriage policies.
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