Firearm Hidden in an Ankle Holster
Good Catch
December 12, 2011
Photo courtesy of TSA.
On Saturday, December 10, TSA Officers at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County International Airport (DTW) prevented a loaded firearm, concealed on a passenger’s body, from reaching an aircraft. During the screening process, TSA’s advanced imaging technology using automated target recognition (ATR) software detected a hidden item on a passenger’s ankle. While resolving the alarm, TSA Officers discovered a loaded .380 caliber Ruger Prescott firearm hidden in an ankle holster. Local law enforcement responded and arrested the individual.
Properly declared, unloaded and properly packaged firearms may be transported in checked baggage, but they are prohibited in carry-on bags. This catch demonstrates not only the ability of advanced imaging technology to identify concealed and dangerous items, but is also a credit to the officers who quickly reacted and kept a dangerous item from being brought through the checkpoint and onto an airplane.
ATR software is installed on all millimeter wave imaging technology units (approximately 300 of the 550 machines deployed use millimeter wave ATR technology). It further enhances privacy by eliminating the need for passenger specific images. Any alarms are displayed at the checkpoint on a generic image, which is the same for all passengers.
