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TSA uncovers diaper filled with bullets at LaGuardia Airport
By
Phil Corso
Published Dec 20, 2023
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Transportation Security Administration
By
Phil Corso
Published Dec 20, 2023
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Something didn't smell right when Transportation Security Administration officers removed a diaper filled with bullets from a man's carry-on bag Wednesday morning.
Authorities said a security checkpoint X-ray machine at LaGuardia Airport wiped an Arkansas man of his luggage after his bag triggered an alarm, prompting officers to unwrap 17 9mm bullets that had been "artfully concealed" inside of an otherwise clean disposable baby diaper, the TSA said.
The man first told officials he didn't know how the deadly diaper ended up in his carry-on, the TSA said. He later said his girlfriend must have put it there, according to officials.
TSA officers notified the Port Authority Police, who cited the man with unlawful possession of the ammunition.
The TSA has seen a record numbers of travelers come through Newark Liberty International, JFK International and LaGuardia airports this year, and this holiday season is expected to be one of the busiest on record, the agency said.
Thomas Carter, TSA federal security director, said the myTSA app can help inform travelers whether an item should be packed in a carry-on or checked bag. Diapers filled with bullets were not listed as one of the permitted items.
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new york city
queens
public safety
transportation
Phil Corso
Phil Corso is the evening news editor at WNYC/Gothamist. Got a tip? Email [email protected].
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