A man was arrested at Miami International Airport last weekend for attacking a Transportation Security Administration official. The day before, he had caused a flight to divert to Miami.
Cameron Dylan McDougall, a 28-year-old male, was arrested on Saturday at Miami International Airport (MIA).
He was charged with three counts of battery on a law enforcement officer and another count of battery on a person older than 65. According to a TSA statement, McDougall assaulted two officers.
"This unprovoked and brash physical attack against our employees, who work tirelessly to ensure the safety of the traveling public and the security of our aviation system, is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. TSA is working with law enforcement and will pursue independent enforcement actions against this individual." - TSA
The TSA added,
“Our frontline TSA Officers are there for our safety and security. This unprovoked attack on our officers is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Assaulting a TSA officer is a federal offense (that) can result in criminal penalties and fines of up to $13,910 in addition to his arrest.”
According to a report from Local 10, McDougall started his rampage airside. His first victim was an elderly man who had been walking to his gate.
McDougall simply approached him and began punching him. After that, he went to the security checkpoint and began attacking officers.
The police said that one officer was punched in the face three times. Another passenger restrained him until Miami-Dade police arrived on the scene.
With five counts of battery, including misdemeanor battery, McDougall was held with a $4,000 bond on Monday.
My contacted the airport about the diverted flight but did not receive a response by the time of publication.
As of 2022, non-physical interference can lead to a fine between $2,250 and $5,380. A physical situation will double the fine. These are civil penalties issued by the TSA.
Criminal Defense Lawyer advises the following to avoid problems:
- If possible, do as you are asked.
- Do not raise your voice or make any threats.
- Ask to speak to a supervisor if you're having a problem with a screener.
- Never touch a TSA official.
In mid-December, two men were arrested for operating a drone near Boston Logan International Airport.
Boston Police Harbor Patrol found three men who fled when confronted, but two were caught. At the time, the police believed the third individual fled in a small vessel.
“The Boston Police Department reminds recreational drone operators of the importance of adhering to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) safety guidelines. Operators are prohibited from flying drones over people or vehicles and must be aware of airspace restrictions.”
In November, a man was arrested at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) with the intent of flying to Syria to join ISIS and engage in terrorism.
Syed Aman is an American citizen who was found trying to join ISIS.
For more than two years, Aman was posting about his support of ISIS on social media. Additionally, he sent money to someone he thought was part of ISIS.