NEW PORT RICHEY, Florida - July 13, 2011 - Airport security is a part of traveling these days, from walking through X-Ray machines to being patted down. But one New Port Richey couple contacted 10 News to say the search they received went too far.
"It was extremely thorough, almost a violation, "says Jason Steitler as he describes how a TSA official searched him at the Greater Rochester International Airport July 6th. Steitler's disability requires that he use a wheelchair.
"They did the hair then did the neck. Then they had me do a pushup in my chair, then got down into my inner thigh around my backside. It's the most thorough search [I've] had done in my life," says Steitler.
Steitler and his wife, Jennifer, were heading home to New Port Richey that morning. She too is in a wheelchair and was searched by a TSA official.
"She's been using the phrase 'search raped' because it was that thorough. She says it was nearly to her crotch," says Steitler. "I feel the chair should have option of either scanner or searches, but automatically we're being thrown to being patted down."
Steitler says they've complained to the TSA about their experience at Rochester International Airport, but all they've received back is a standard form letter.
"Just the standard reply to everything: 'In order to fly you have to be searched,'" says Steitler.
In an email to the Steitlers, a TSA official writes, "We apologize for any insensitivity or inappropriate treatment you experienced during the screening process."
In another email, a TSA official says, "We believe these security measures are necessary and appropriate for ensuring the security and confidence of all air travelers."
The Steitlers say they are not opposed to the searches, just the way the disabled are treated when it's done. Steitler says, "Generally, be fair about it. Don't hold the disabled up to more scrutiny just because they are in chairs."
Ed. Note: The cattle and sheeple continue to accept the illegal Fourth Amendment violations by TSA employees. They keep justifying these violations of their fundamental rights in the name of security. “Those who surrender liberty for promises of security deserve neither.” - Benjamin Franklin.
