Originally Posted by
janetdoe
1. Is refusing to undergo a search considered "sufficient cause"?
No.
2. If the TSA can't detain me, then why can't I just blow by them, walk through a metal detector and walk to my gate?
Because it's illegal. If you do that and no law enforcement stops you, the likely result will be what's called a "terminal dump" here: the terminal is evacuated and searched and all passengers rescreened.
What resources do they have to make me 'obey' them? Is the only thing they can do to call the local police?
Yes, but there are police "on call" that have to be able to respond within a minute or two of being called.
3. On what basis can the local police detain me and keep me from getting on my flight?
Failure to complete the screening process. Or interference with the screening process in the "blow by them" scenario.
Or force me to leave airport premises?
That depends on local law and will vary from airport to airport. The legal issue is whether you can be considered "loitering" once it's been determined that you aren't flying.
4. Can the LEO force me to submit to a search?
They can't force you to submit to TSA's search, but could do a search of their own should there be sufficient cause.