U.S. Traveler Briefly Detained for Firearm at PGIA; Police Justify Release

Police are responding to public concerns tonight after an American businessman was briefly detained at the Philip Goldson International Airport over the weekend when security scanners detected a firearm in his luggage. Authorities say the man claimed he forgot the weapon was inside and following background checks and consultation with U.S. officials, police chose to exercise discretion in the case. News Five questioned whether police have any discretion at all in a case where the law clearly mandates Supreme Court bail. Here’s how ASP Stacy Smith explained the decision.

 

ASP Stacy Smith, Staff Officer

“As it relates to the inquiry, I can confirm that indeed an American national was discovered with a firearm on Saturday at the airport. What I have been advised is that the American national businessman, when he had surrendered himself up to the scanning that occurs at the airport, the officers there discovered the firearm. He was placed in detention and he immediately stated that he was not aware that the firearm was there. It was a oversight on his part. Thorough check was done in relation to the background of this individual via Interpol. Communications were made with the US Embassy, where it was learned that he was not a person of interest in any situation. A decision was made to release him and confiscate the firearm by way of an exercise of a discretion. Now, given that by all indications I don’t believe someone would present themself to a scanning knowing that they have with them a firearm, the story that he provided was one that was feasible. He was cautioned and reprimanded and he was allowed to leave. What I will also say is that this individual came into the country on a private flight. Some, I think a day before, just a day before to conduct business.”

 

Shane Williams

“But does police have authority to exercise such discretion in terms of a lot that is definitely broken.”

 

ASP Stacy Smith

“There is room for the exercise of discretion. Police officers have been exercising discretion for quite some time.”