Applicable To: Sworn and Communications  Personnel

Approval Authority:  Major Darryl K. Tolleson

Signature:  Signed by DKT

Date Signed: 9/28/2004

1.        PURPOSE  PAGEREF _Toc86123363 \h 1

2.        POLICY   PAGEREF _Toc86123364 \h 1

3.        RESPONSIBILITIES  PAGEREF _Toc86123365 \h 1

4.        ACTION  PAGEREF _Toc86123366 \h 1

4.12.3    Law Enforcement Officers traveling on an aircraft. PAGEREF _Toc86123367 \h 4

4.12.4    Federal Flight Deck Officers (FFDO) PAGEREF _Toc86123368 \h 4

4.12.5    Federal Air Marshals  PAGEREF _Toc86123369 \h 4

5.        DEFINITIONS  PAGEREF _Toc86123370 \h 5

6.        CANCELLATION  PAGEREF _Toc86123371 \h 6

7.         REFERENCES  PAGEREF _Toc86123372 \h 6

1.               PURPOSE

The purpose of this Section Command Memorandum is to establish general guidelines by which officers will conduct themselves while assigned to a checkpoint area. There are five checkpoint areas located within Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.  They are identified as: Domestic or Main, E-Concourse or International, Mezzanine Checkpoint, T-Checkpoint and West Crossover

2.               POLICY [ Return to Top ]

It is the policy of the Atlanta Police Department Airport Section to assist the traveling public through the airport in a safe and expedient manner. 

3.               RESPONSIBILITIES [ Return to Top ]

3.1              It is the responsibility of all police supervisors to insure that this Section Command Memorandum is strictly adhered to.

3.2              It is the responsibility of the LEO assigned to a checkpoint to respond when summoned to determine if the credential and badge presented by an armed federal, state, or local LEO, appear to be issued by the appropriate organization, including the review of an FFDO credential, without badge, when presented at the screening checkpoint.

3.3              It is the responsibility of the LEO assigned to a checkpoint to keep the LEO desk area clean and orderly.

4.               ACTION [ Return to Top ]

4.1              At all times when a checkpoint is open a LEO must be assigned to it. At no time will the Checkpoint LEO leave the checkpoint without being relieved by another LEO unless otherwise stated in this Section Command Memorandum.

4.2              The Checkpoint LEO will observe the public and be on the alert for acts or potential acts of criminal activity in and around the checkpoint area.

4.3              The Checkpoint LEO will respond to calls for assistance from TSA personnel.

4.4              The Checkpoint LEO will make arrests on violations of federal, state laws and city ordinances.

4.5              The Checkpoint LEO will not participate in the searching of articles or luggage.  When requested to do so by TSA personnel, the Checkpoint LEO will stand by and observe while TSA personnel search articles. If a weapon is found, the LEO will immediately take charge of the weapon. While the luggage or article is being searched, the Checkpoint LEO will observe the owner of the property for safety reasons. 

4.6              The Checkpoint LEO will respond to alarms received from any of the X-ray machines on the Checkpoint.

4.6.1           When an alarm is activated or a request for assistance is received by a Checkpoint LEO. The Checkpoint LEO will notify police communications of the alarm, or request for assistance and the checkpoint location.  The Checkpoint LEO should advise police communications the X-ray machine number on which the alarm is activated or assistance is requested at.  The Check point LEO will then respond to the machine to determine the reason for the alarm or request for assistance.

4.6.2           The communications person will, upon receiving an alarm call, or the Checkpoint LEO pulls out, dispatch the closest officer.  If possible, the communications person will advise the responding officer the location in the checkpoint area of the call. The communications person will then notify an on duty police supervisor of the alarm or the request for assistance.

4.6.3           The Checkpoint LEO will advise police communications as soon as possible, the reason for the alarm or request for assistance. A signal 29, 69, or 73, etc.

(OFFICERS WILL NOT USE THEIR RADIO OR CELL PHONE IF THE POSSIBILITY OF A BOMB EXISTS, DUE TO POSSIBLE DETONATION).

4.6.4           The Checkpoint LEO will use the telephone for notification purposes in instances of signal 73's otherwise the radio is appropriate.  The responding officer and the communications officer should keep the possibility of a bomb in mind, when they don't receive further communications from the Checkpoint LEO.

4.7              Bombs and Bomb Threats at a checkpoint will be handled in accordance with APD.SOP.3182, “Bomb Threats.”

4.8              In incidents when weapons are brought into the checkpoint and are brought to the LEO's attention, the Checkpoint LEO will notify radio and take charge of the weapon.  In all instances when a weapon is brought into a checkpoint area and it is brought to the LEO's attention, the Checkpoint LEO will complete a "TSA Passenger Screening Information Form" a copy of which is attached.  SEE THE DEFINITION OF A WEAPON SECTION 5.14.

4.8.1           If the Checkpoint LEO determines the weapon is a violation of a city or state law and probable cause exists to arrest, the Checkpoint LEO will escort the suspect and weapon back to the Checkpoint LEO’s desk to await relief.

4.8.2           When the relief officer arrives, the Checkpoint LEO will then escort the suspect to the Police Precinct to complete the proper police reports and the arrest ticket. This is to include the "TSA Passenger Screening Information Form."

WEAPONS WILL NOT BE UNLOADED AT THE CHECKPOINT UNLESS CIRCUMSTANCES DICTATE THE WEAPON BE IMMEDIATELY UNLOADED.  WHENEVER A WEAPON IS TO BE UNLOADED, THE LEO WILL MOVE AWAY FROM ALL PERSONS AND WILL KEEP THE WEAPONS MUZZLE POINTED AWAY FROM ALL PERSONS AND OBJECTS WHICH MIGHT CAUSE A DISCHARGED PROJECTILE TO RICOCHET.  IF THE CHECKPOINT LEO IS NOT FAMILIAR WITH THE WEAPONS OPERATION AND HOW TO UNLOAD IT, HE/SHE WILL MAINTAIN THE WEAPON IN A SAFE MANNER AND REQUEST A POLICE SUPERVISOR.

4.8.3           When a person who was armed gives the Checkpoint LEO reason to believe that he/she is violent or may attempt escape, the Checkpoint LEO will obtain a backup officer before escorting the individual to the precinct.

4.8.4           When the Checkpoint LEO deems that an arrest will not be made the checkpoint LEO must still complete a " TSA Passenger Screening Information Form."  This form will be turned in to the airport police administrative section for filing and a copy sent to the TSA Office. Where a violation has occurred and the Checkpoint LEO deems an arrest will not be made. The Checkpoint LEO must obtain the approval of a supervisor before releasing the individual.

4.8.5           In all incidents where assistance is requested from the Checkpoint LEO and it is a violation of the law, TSA Regulation, or the incident falls into any area of airport security.  The Checkpoint LEO will complete the "TSA Passenger Screening Information Form."

4.9              It is the responsibility of the LEO assigned to a checkpoint to respond when summoned to determine if the credential and badge presented by an armed federal, state, or local LEO, appear to be issued by the appropriate agency, including the review of an FFDO credential, without badge, when presented at the screening checkpoint.

4.10            If the checkpoint LEO determines that the credential and badge do not appear to be issued by the appropriate agency, then the checkpoint LEO will not allow the individuals access to the checkpoint and will immediately call for a police supervisor to respond to the checkpoint.

4.11            Checkpoint LEOs will not allow armed LEOs to by pass the screening function.  Once the checkpoint LEO determines the credential and badge appear to be issued by the appropriate agency, the checkpoint LEO will inform the TSA checkpoint security supervisor/screener-in-charge of the determination.  TSA checkpoint security supervisor/screener-in-charge or its’ representative may permit an armed LEO to proceed into the sterile area.

4.12            The following procedures will be adhered to when a Law Enforcement Officer or FFDO approaches any screening area to bypass the screening process.

4.12.1         Law Enforcement Officers in uniform or in plain clothes, who possess an ATL Badge and their agency identification.

1.    TSA personnel will check the LEO’s identification and ATL Badge and upon verification, immediately allow the LEO unescorted access to the sterile area. 

2.    The checkpoint LEO will not have to respond unless TSA personnel request assistance.

4.12.2         Law Enforcement Officers in uniform or in plain clothes who are not traveling on a flight and who do not possess an ATL Badge.

1.    The Checkpoint LEO will meet the officer(s) or agent(s) at the entrance to the screening area, verify that the officers or agents credentials appear to be issued by the appropriate agency and ensure the "Law Enforcement Officers Identification Log" is completed. When the "Law Enforcement Officers Identification Log" is completed.

2.    The checkpoint LEO will inform the TSA checkpoint security supervisor/screener-in-charge.

4.12.3         Law Enforcement Officers traveling on an aircraft. [ Return to Top ]

1.    The Checkpoint LEO will meet the officer(s) or agent(s) at the entrance to the screening area, check the officers or agents credentials to verify that the credentials appear to be issued by the appropriate agency.

2.    The Checkpoint LEO will ensure the "Law Enforcement Officers Identification Log" is completed on each officer or agent.  When the "Law Enforcement Officers Identification Log" is completed.

3.    The checkpoint LEO will inform the TSA checkpoint security supervisor/screener-in-charge.

4.12.4         Federal Flight Deck Officers (FFDO) [ Return to Top ]

1.    The Checkpoint LEO will meet the pilot at the entrance to the screening area; check the FFDO’s TSA credential and aircraft operator identification to verify that the credentials appear to be issued by the appropriate agency.

2.    The Checkpoint LEO will ensure the "Law Enforcement Officers Identification Log" is completed on each FFDO.  When the "Law Enforcement Officers Identification Log" is completed.

3.    The checkpoint LEO will inform the TSA checkpoint security supervisor/screener-in-charge.

4.12.5         Federal Air Marshals [ Return to Top ]

1.    The Checkpoint LEO will meet Federal Air Marshals at the entrance to the screening area, check the Federal Air Marshals credentials to verify that the credentials appear to be issued by the appropriate agency. 

2.    The checkpoint LEO will inform the TSA checkpoint security supervisor/screener-in-charge of the determination.

3.    The checking of Federal Air Marshals will be done as discretely as possible.

4.12.6         When the checkpoint LEO has any question as to the authenticity of a LEO’s credentials or  ATL badge. Unescorted assess into the checkpoint area will not be allowed.  The Checkpoint LEO will call for an on duty police supervisor to respond to the screening area and attempt to validate the credentials.   Only an on-duty police supervisor and/or the issuing agency may make verification of credentials. The checkpoint LEO will make note of who made this verification. Verification of FFDO credentials may be obtained by contacting the TSA, Federal Air Marshal Service, Mission Operations Control Center, at 1-866-883-8533 (24 Hours).

4.13            Whenever the West Crossover alarm is activated the Checkpoint LEO will proceed to the AGT (Automated Guided Train) ticketing station. Once there the officer will observe the elevator, trains and mezzanine escalator for the subject who breached security at the West Crossover.

4.14            In the event of a suspect running through the screening area to avoid the screening process, the Checkpoint LEO will immediately activate the code orange alarm system, notify communications, give a lookout, and pursue the suspect.  

4.15            Whenever a help call, signal 63, is given on the East Crossover. The Checkpoint LEO will respond. On any help call, signal 63, anywhere else in the airport the Checkpoint LEO will request permission to depart the checkpoint from the on duty police supervisor.

4.16            The checkpoint LEO will follow TSA Rules and Regulations for the screening area.

4.17            The Checkpoint LEO will not read books, newspapers, magazines, or any type of reading material, with exception of written materials necessary for the performance of his/her duties at the checkpoint.

4.18            The Checkpoint LEO will not consume meals at the checkpoint.  However, drinks are allowed but care must be taken not to spill liquids into electronic equipment.

4.19            The Commander of the Police Section or his designee, when deemed necessary for public safety, may close the checkpoint.

4.20            The LEO assigned to the West Crossover will ensure that no unauthorized person enters the AGT from the West Crossover area.

4.21            In the event of a suspect running through the West Crossover Area and into the AGT area, the LEO will immediately activate the code orange alarm system, notify communications, give a lookout, and pursue the suspect.  

5.               DEFINITIONS [ Return to Top ]

5.1              AGT (Automated Guide Transit): The underground tunnel system that connects the terminal and concourses.  It includes the north/south train tubes, moving sidewalks and pedestrian walkways.

5.2              CHECKPOINT LEO: (law enforcement officer) A police officer assigned to a checkpoint.

5.3              DOMESTIC OR MAIN CHECKPOINT (SCREENING AREA): The domestic screening area located in the center, east side, of the east crossover in the terminal.   

5.4              TSA PASSENGER SCREENING INFORMATION FORM: a form approved by the TSA to record pertinent information on individuals who unlawfully enter the checkpoint area armed.

5.5              FEDERAL FLIGHT DECK OFFICER (FFDO): A pilot who is Deputized in accordance with 49 U.S.C. Section 44921(d), as a Federal Law Enforcement Officer and may transport an issued or approved firearm in an issued lockbox as necessary to participated in the program.

5.6              E-CONCOURSE OR INTERNATIONAL  CHECKPOINT (SCREENING AREA): The International  Screening Area is located on E-concourse at the  baggage re-check  area.

5.7              LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS IDENTIFICATION LOG: A three-ring binder supplied and maintained by TSA.  Within this binder are pages that the checkpoint LEO records armed law enforcement officers, without an ATL identification badge, who bypass the screening function.

5.8              MEALS: sandwiches, hamburgers, food in containers, etc.

5.9              MEZZANINE CHECKPOINT: The Mezzanine Checkpoint is located one level above the AGT Baggage Station.

5.10            T-CONCOURSE  CHECKPOINT (SCREENING AREA): The T-concourse  screening area is located on T-concourse at the east end of the North Terminal.

5.11            TSA: Transportation Security Administration

5.12            WEAPON: Any of the following items:

5.12.1         Firearms: Any weapon from which a shot may be fired by the force of an explosion including starter pistols, compressed air or BB guns, and flare pistols.

5.12.2         Knives: Including sabers, swords, hunting knives, souvenir knives, martial arts devices, and such other knives with a blade 3 inches long or longer.

5.12.4         Bludgeons: Blackjacks, billy clubs, or similar instruments.

5.12.5         Explosives/Ammunition/Flammable Liquids: Any explosive incendiary components which by themselves or in conjunction with other items can result in an explosion or fire.  These include explosive  materials,  blasting caps, fireworks, gasoline, other flammable liquids, ammunition, etc., or any combination of these items generally referred to as a "bomb".

5.12.6         Disabling or Incapacitation Items: All tear gas, mace, and similar chemicals and gases whether in pistol, canister, or other container, and other disabling devices such as electronic stunning/shocking devices.

5.12.7         Other Articles: Such items as ice picks, straight razors, and elongated scissors, even though not commonly thought of as a deadly or dangerous weapon, but could be used as a weapon, including toy or "dummy" weapons or grenades.

5.13            WEST CROSSOVER CHECKPOINT: The area located at the top of the elevator/escalator that leads from the AGT Baggage Claim Station.  This area is not a screening area.

5.14            WEST CROSSOVER ALARM: The button located in the box mounted on the wall next to the elevators that is activated by the LEO or TSA at the west crossover whenever anyone breaches security by entering the AGT from the West Bridge.

5.15            X-RAY MACHINE NUMBER: A number affixed to each X-Ray machine located at the domestic checkpoint.

6.               CANCELLATION [ Return to Top ]

AS.CM.03.003, “Passenger Screening Support.”

7.               REFERENCES [ Return to Top ]

Aviation Security Directive SD 1542