Magician Fails to Trick TSOs
News & Happenings
February 1, 2008
Always watching for the unusual, security officers at Burlington (Vt.) International Airport recently intercepted a magician's wallet that could burn a hole in anyone's pocket.
Working at the checkpoint on Jan. 10, Lead Transportation Security Officer Zigmund Piech observed a passenger with unusual bulges in his back pockets. During a pat-down, the passenger divested two packs of playing cards and a wallet. Piech noticed a gasoline odor coming from the items, as did Supervisory TSO Cindy Bevins, who put the items through the X-ray. The wallet produced an unusual image and as they were examining it, burst into flames.
The passenger explained that he is a magician and uses the wallet in his performance. The items were intercepted by law enforcement and the passenger was allowed to board his flight.
"Lead TSO Piech's vigilance and attention to detail should be commended," said Transportation Security Manager Jeremy Towne.
