Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes praised Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers at Trenton-Mercer Airport for stopping a traveler with a loaded .380-caliber handgun in his carry-on bag at the airport’s security checkpoint in mid-December.
The man also was in possession of two loaded gun magazines and a pellet gun, which, like a firearm, is not permitted through a TSA security checkpoint. He was arrested by Mercer County Sheriff’s Officers.
“This incident illustrates the crucial role TSA officers play in helping to ensure the safety of the traveling public,” County Executive Hughes said.
“I commend the TSA officers at Trenton-Mercer Airport for their dedication and thank them for their service.”
The County Executive also thanked the federal government for acknowledging TSA officers’ valuable contributions by providing funding in the fiscal year 2023 budget that allows the TSA to bring pay rates in line with other federal agencies, effective July 1, 2023.
The TSA said its Transportation Security Officers have generally been paid up to 30 percent less than their federal counterparts.