A  TSA agent is speaking out and he’s admiting seniors and the elderly are often targeted for pat downs in airports.

A TSA  Agent  recently told Pittsburgh News KDKA that “TSA officers don’t like the new aggressive pat-down of passengers either.”

He adds, “I truly feel that it is morally and ethically wrong to do it.”

Here’s  why some of us also think it’s wrong.

1. Could possibly be in violation of the 4th Amendment. 

We are not a police state.  According to the Constitution you can not take a person off the street and strip search him without  probable cause.  Why are seniors who have had hip replacements and knee replacements being targeted?  That is also happening according to the agent.  Since when is an elderly grandmother visiting her grandchildren a threat to national security?

2. Could the aggressive touching of passengers in areas where they do not want to be touched  possibly be considered a form of  sexual assault?

 The agent  states  “If you do it properly, you’re not touching the genitalia. But there is so much room for error, that’s where the problem comes because you’re in such close proximity of the areas that you are checking, it could happen.” 

It should not happen.  Period.

3. Exactly how are the x-ray machines being calibrated, or are we not supposed to ask? 

Do we know for certain that all the machines are calibrated correctly?  What happens if a mistake is made and a pregnant woman receives too much radiation?

What then?

4. What about the public revelation of a person’s private medical condition? 

We all know the horror story of 61-year old Thomas Sawyer, a bladder cancer survivor.  Could this be in violation of  HIPPA?  Why is it doctor’s offices have to tread so carefully with HIPPA and airport personal do not? In case you haven’t read about the public display of  Mr. Sawyer’s condition, here is the link to his story. 

5. Lastly, if these machines and pat-downs are so important for national security, why were the machines mysteriously turned off in many airports last week, during the Thanksgiving rush season?

Could that have been in response to the public’s complaints?  Or did the TSA suddenly receive the all clear signal?

There are lots of problems and questions about the new security measures.  Please note those of us who are questioning the wisdom and practicality of it all are not advocating passengers not be searched.  We are simply asking why other means  can not be explored.

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