The Transportation Security Administration says it was notified of improper screening of checked baggage by a source in December 2010. An initial investigation was launched at the end of that year and concluded in March 2011.
The investigation looked into improper screening at the airport’s lobby 4 location from September to December of 2010.
In June of 2011, TSA announced 48 screeners at the Honolulu International Airport were investigated for improper screening. By September 2011, three employees resigned or retired, 28 were fired, and 15 were suspended.
Following that announcement, Republican Representatives John Mica of Florida and Jason Chafetz of Utah sent a letter to the Department of Homeland Security.
In the letter, the congressmen raised questions about the TSA’s effectiveness at the Honolulu airport and asked DHS office of Inspector General(OIG) to investigate.
The New report from the DHS OIG outlines new recommendations to make sure every bag gets screened.
In the executive summary, the report says:
"… this situation might not have occurred if TSA:
- Developed changes in screening procedures comprehensively and then thoroughly evaluated the effects of such changes;
- Supervisors provided better oversight of Transportation Security Officers and baggage screening operations; and
- Provided screening operations at the affected location with adequate staff and screening equipment in a timely manner.
A redacted version of the report can be seen here:
http://www.oig.dhs.gov/assets/Mgmt/2012/OIGr_12-128_Sep12.pdf
See the original article at: KHON2 Local News
