TSO Uncovers Loaded Firearm at Checkpoint
News & Happenings
May 17, 2007
Just a few weeks into his new posting at Palm Springs (Calif.) International Airport, Transportation Security Officer Michael Youakim was working at the security checkpoint X-ray when he noticed what appeared to be a loaded firearm on the screen.
Once he determined it was a .25-caliber handgun with five rounds in the clip, he immediately contacted his supervisor. "Thanks to the training I received, I was well-prepared for what to expect and what to do," said Youakim, who joined TSA in late 2002.
Law enforcement was called and the passenger was arrested.
"TSO Youakim's professionalism in responding to this potentially threatening situation is a perfect example of how skills combined with excellent training prevented a firearm from entering the sterile area," said Transportation Security Manager Charles Bellamy of the March 31 incident.
