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Old Dec 11, 2005 | 7:06 pm
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Old NFO
 
Join Date: Sep 2005
Location: IAD
Programs: GS MM United, Hilton Diamond, ICH Gold, Mariott Silver, TWA Plat MM (just for old times sake)
Posts: 323
IAD TSA can't recognize a Flashlight

Well, I got picked for a full screening today because of my flashlight!
I carry a small metal INOVA 5 LED 65 Lumen flashlight in my briefcase (and have for 2 years). But today, I get a screener that alerts on it, so they tear my briefcase apart... claiming I have a "device" in it... The woman finally locates the flashlight, but can't find the button (it's a screw type butt plate with a momentary on, which I had unscrewed to make sure it doesn't come on in the bag). She finally screws it in while looking at the LEDs, it comes on and scares her, so she does one of those "EEEP" sounds and drops it. Of course that brings a crowd- I get hauled over to the side and get the full barrage... They wiped every bag, my shoes, my leather jacket, opened my carry on, and looked through EVERY item. There's a big discussion over the flashlight as it has lithium batteries and is "too bright". Finally, 20 minutes later, my stuff is thrown back in the bag and I'm told I can go. I asked for a complaint form, and get the song and dance that I was not "singled" out... Yeah, right!
I walk around writing the names of the individuals that were involved, and I get a supervisor who tells me, "If you don't leave I will have you arrested for harassing the officers." What a way to start the day!
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