A loaded firearm was found at the security checkpoint on Sunday at the Durango-La Plata County Airport, according to the Transportation Security Administration.
The TSA said in a news release Tuesday that a .380 caliber Ruger LCP – a small semi-auto pistol – was detected by an X-ray screening checkpoint on Sunday morning.
The La Plata County Sheriff’s Office took possession of the weapon and interviewed the passenger, who was allowed to continue on their flight. TSA said possible criminal charges would be determined by the Sheriff’s Office.
Sgt. Nate Harris said the individual was cleared and there were no charges.
“It was one of those situations where you should know better in this day and age, but some people forget what’s in their bags,” Harris said. “It happens a lot at our airport, unfortunately.”
TSA said this is the third firearm found at the Durango-La Plata County Airport this year. In 2016, four firearms were found during airport screening procedures.
“Firearms can only be transported in a checked bag that is declared to the airline at the ticket counter and properly packed in a locked, hard-sided container,” Carrie Harmon, public affairs manager for TSA, said in a prepared statement.
TSA can fine a passenger up to $11,000 for bringing a firearm to a checkpoint, but the agency said the average penalty is $3,000 for a loaded firearm and $1,500 for an unloaded firearm.
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