Passenger Bites 2 TSA Agents At Denver International Airport
By Rebekah Gonzalez
June 28, 2021
TSA is now asking travelers "to remain calm and respectful" following an increase in assaults against TSA agents recently.
The incident at DIA occurred on June 14, reports Denver7.
According to a press release issued on Thursday, June 24, the incident is still being investigated.
The traveler accused of biting could face a potential civil penalty of up to $13,910 for several violations of TSA security requirements.
The suspect, 29-year-old Keswan Hawkins, was arrested by the Denver Police Department and faces charges including second-degree assault and second-degree assault on a peace officer.
According to a heavily redacted probable cause document obtained by Denver7, Hawkin reportedly tried to go through an x-ray monitor. When a TSA agent told him he couldn't go through he "swung at the TSA agent with a closed punch."
After an officer put his arm around Hawkins to keep him from hitting the TSA agent again, Hawkins hit another agent in the mouth and bit both TSA agents in the leg.
A spokesperson said this one of more than 69 occurrences across the country involving TSA employees being physically assaulted by travelers.