PALM SPRINGS, Calif. — A U.S. Marine was recently detained at Palm Springs International Airport after Transportation Security Administration (TSA) personnel discovered a live 25 mm explosive round in his checked luggage. The incident occurred during the routine screening process on Monday, as detailed by the Palm Springs Police Department in an official news release.
According to investigators, the Marine found the round approximately a year prior while in the field, and kept it under the assumption that it was not live. However, police noted the round was extensively rusted and corroded, obscuring its identifying paint markings, thus complicating the determination of whether it was an inert training munition or a live explosive device.
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team used X-ray technology to verify that the round was indeed live. Subsequently, the team transported the explosive to a remote desert area near Interstate 10, where it was safely destroyed without incident.
The police have since submitted the case to the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office for a review to assess potential violations and possible criminal charges. An inquiry has been made to the district attorney’s office, but there has been no response as of yet.
After being detained, the Marine was released into the custody of military authorities. The Marine Corps may pursue administrative actions, and there is also the possibility of a civil penalty through the TSA. Both organizations have been contacted for further comments.
According to investigators, the Marine found the round approximately a year prior while in the field, and kept it under the assumption that it was not live. However, police noted the round was extensively rusted and corroded, obscuring its identifying paint markings, thus complicating the determination of whether it was an inert training munition or a live explosive device.
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team used X-ray technology to verify that the round was indeed live. Subsequently, the team transported the explosive to a remote desert area near Interstate 10, where it was safely destroyed without incident.
The police have since submitted the case to the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office for a review to assess potential violations and possible criminal charges. An inquiry has been made to the district attorney’s office, but there has been no response as of yet.
After being detained, the Marine was released into the custody of military authorities. The Marine Corps may pursue administrative actions, and there is also the possibility of a civil penalty through the TSA. Both organizations have been contacted for further comments.
