In what is being called a betrayal of trust, four LAX Transportation Security Administration screeners have been arrested for taking bribes. Rather than carry out their responsibility, they instead accepted cash to turn a blind eye to drugs that were being smuggled through security. It is estimated that they took $2,400 in cash in return for allowing suitcases of cocaine, marijuana, and methamphetamines to pass through security checkpoints. This “significant breakdown” in security is worrying due to the fact that if they will accept bribes for drugs, why not weapons or bombs? The U.S. attorney for the Central District of California said in reference to the case that these employees “placed greed above the nation’s security needs.”
These incidents took place over a six-month period last year and all four suspects are currently in custody. If they are convicted, they could be facing life imprisonment for their offenses. Being a part ofdrug trafficking in any way is extremely serious, especially when it is coupled with bribery by such a person as an airport security employee. Drug crimes can be charge as misdemeanors or felonies, based on the circumstances of the situation. Not only could they be facing time in jail, but heavy fines as well.
If you have been accused of adrug-related crime or awhite collar crime likebribery, you should contact a Los Angeles criminal defense attorney from our team at Martinian & Associates Inc. We have years of experience in this area of law and can handle even the most serious crimes like this recent case. We offer a free case evaluation so that you can learn exactly how we could help you. Do not waste any time incontacting a Los Angeles criminal lawyer from our team. We will do everything in our power to protect your best interests.
