Originally Posted by
TSORon
Like the ETD systems we use, they can be programed to detect just about any chemical. The US Coast Guard uses the same ETD technology to detect drug traces on interdicted vessels. They are looking for drugs and have their units programed to do so, the TSA is not looking for drugs and our units are not programed for it.
Ron,
I went back and looked at the briefing. The TSA logo was all over it. If the briefing was given at the DHS level, I would have given them a pass about detecting drugs, money, and -- I forgot the first time -- media (i.e.: books, CDs, DVDs). But, since this was clearly a TSA briefing given by a TSA briefer, I can only conclude that it is the TSA's policy to search for these non-prohibited items. Perhaps the TSA assumed that this presentation was given among friends, until it wound up on the internet.
These types of external presentations in any federal agency require review & approval by several individuals in the leadership chain. This briefing is an official admission that the TSA uses these devices and other search techniques (play the pie chart in "slide show" format) to actively search for drugs, money, and media. I've sent a copy to Rep. Issa's staff.