In 2021, TSA officers recovered 156 firearms at DIA checkpoints, a new record. Denver ranked seventh in the nation for recovered firearms according to the TSA. When the new statistics were released, TSA spokesman David Pekoske stated that he believed, “What we see in our checkpoints really reflects what we’re seeing in society, and in society, there are more people carrying firearms nowadays.”
This doesn’t mean there are more people intentionally trying to bring a firearm on a plane, but it does give authorities concern. Any gun on a plane in the hands of the wrong person can be dangerous for everyone on board.
What If This Happens to You?
To combat this situation, authorities and judges are taking a closer look and a harder approach to guns in airports. In Denver, if a person is caught with a firearm in their carry-on luggage, TSA stops the bag and calls in local police. After reviewing the circumstances, the gun owner is typically charged with a municipal code violation for Violation of Airport Rules and given a court date. But this is only half the problem.
After receiving the municipal charge, the gun owner will receive a Notice of Violation from the TSA, too. While the TSA violation is a civil offense and not criminal, it can come with significant fines on top of any municipal court fines, often thousands of dollars.
Causing a Stir
Judges are very concerned with the problem. Recently, a General Sessions judge explained in a case that the increase in gun violations at the airport has truly become a public safety concern. She failed to see how someone could simply forget they have a deadly weapon in their bag. Judges’ patience with the “I forgot it was in my bag” defense has grown tiresome. In response, judges are giving larger fines, up to the maximum, requiring community service and gun safety classes, and in cases where the firearm was chambered, the offender is being required to relinquish their firearm.
A Great Attorney Can Help
If you find yourself charged with attempting to carry a firearm through a TSA checkpoint, you need an attorney. The Bussey Law Firm, P.C. is well-equipped and experienced in defending this charge. Our firm routinely handles DIA and Colorado Springs Airport cases. Given the rise in the number of these cases and the courts’ current frustration with this offense, you should contact The Bussey Law Firm, P.C. at (719) 475-2555 to ensure you get the best defense out there.
