A loaded firearm was found at the security checkpoint on Sunday at the Durango-La Plata County Airport, according to the Transportation Security Administration.
The TSA said in a news release Tuesday said that a .380 caliber Ruger LCP - a small semi-auto pistol - was detected by an X-ray screening checkpoint on Sunday morning.
The La Plata County Sheriff's Office took possession of the weapon and interviewed the passenger, who was allowed to continue on the flight. TSA said possible criminal charges would be determined by the Sheriff's Office.
The Sheriff's Office did not immediately return calls seeking comment Tuesday afternoon.
"Firearms can only be transported in a checked bag that is declared to the airline at the ticket counter and properly packed in a locked, hard-sided container," Carrie Harmon, public affairs manager for TSA, said in a prepared statement.
TSA said this is the third firearm found at the Durango-La Plata County Airport this year. In 2016, four firearms were found during airport screening procedures.
TSA can fine a passenger up to $11,000 for bringing a firearm to a checkpoint, but the agency said the average penalty is $3,000 for a loaded firearm and $1,500 for an unloaded firearm.
jromeo@durangoherald.com
