Originally Posted by bdschobel
Probably nothing will happen. These guys must file thousands of reports every day. (They have nothing else to do!) I don't expect that anybody even reads most of them.
But I wonder if you handled the situation in the best way. Whenever a law-enforcement officer detains you (being prevented from leaving the plane is prima facie detention), you should immediately ask, "Am I under arrest?" That question should be the first thing out of your mouth (well, maybe after identifying yourself). If the answer is no, then ask, "So am I free to go?" If the answer to that question is no, then repeat the first question. Repeat this cycle as many times as necessary until either (1) you are actually arrested (very, very unlikely without probable cause -- and then you can sue) or (2) you are told that you are free to go, which will happen eventually.
And if you are actually arrested, remember to say, "I would really love to answer your questions, but I can't do it until I have a lawyer present. Sorry."
Bruce
Your "best way of handling the situation" is very relative. This may be the best way for you to handle the situation, if you don't mind being detained for up to 72 hours ("you are told that you are free to go, which will happen eventually"), while the investigation continues and no charges being filed. Since detentions usually take place in a jail cell, and not a hotel room, this doesn't sound very inviting.
Considering this specific incident, this would be quite a waste of taxpayer money (the much extended investigation, to the ultimate same conclusion).
An unlawful arrest may result in a recovery of damages, although, as long as the law enforcement officers acted lawfully, you would have no recourse.