Originally Posted by
ND Sol
This gives me concerns about the legality of gate searches. Those searches are more extensive and intensive than what current technology is, i.e. x-ray machines. Also, I am unaware of a case in which a prosecution has been based on a "random" search at either the screening checkpoint or the gate. Based on dicta, a strong argument can be made that a "random" secondary search exceeds what is permissible.
This is what I've been saying right along. I think there is a significant constitutionality issue with gate searches, particularly when they involve a pat-down.
There have, however, been prosecutions based on discovery of non-security-related contraband in the course of a WTMD screening search.