Originally Posted by
mfkne
Even at TSA checkpoints the policy is that you must go through the entire checkpoint if you enter it. So deciding then and there that you want you check stuff in your bags wouldn't fly there either.
Yes, you could.
A 'good' TSO will immediately escort you back to the non-sterile area.
A not-so-good TSO will give you grief and insist on a full, extended grope and comprehensive swabbing before escorting you back to the non-sterile area.
A dishonest and improperly supervised TSO (or one at PHX T2) will get in your face, threaten to call the police, confiscate your item, ask you if you really want to fly that day, bla-bla.
I have done this a couple times when a TSO insisted on confiscating something I believe he intended to keep for himself. I was escorted back to the non-sterile area, where I went to the nearest bathroom and disposed of the item. Better it goes into the trash than into the pocket of a corrupt TSO.