In Plane Sight: Drug agents searching passengers for cash at airport gates

Atlanta News First Investigates recently tailed U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration task force officers as they walked, otherwise unnoticed, from gate to gate at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. We watched them search passengers right after they scanned their boarding passes.
Read the full investigation here: www.atlantanewsfirst.com/2023...
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[@e.nichols5380]

What a disgrace to law enforcement. Anyone who willfully disregards a persons rights and freedoms is garbage

[@mikewurlitzer5217]

It MUST be a Capital Punishment offence for ANY government official to violate our Constitutional Rights. These are our most Foundational Documents in law and to use the brute force of government to violate them REQUIRES, Capital Punishment of any government official willing to violate these most Foundational protections.

[@Ms.Kelani]

The same dingbats whining about 2A while trampling on the rights of innocent people. I can’t stand liars a hypocrites.

[@ebf1003]

I feel bad for their parents. Their parents see this and have to realize how bad they messed up at raising their children.

[@targgthewise2892]

Bidens DEA

[@dennisd9554]

Oh but they're keeping us safe from thieves by "protecting" our cash!

[@Recovering_Californian]

Policing for cash ... departments get a cut. It's sickening.

[@johnwilburn]

It’s criminal.

[@dskains]

And one of those seizure amounts shown in the video was for just over $1000. A thousand dollars they took from someone. Horrible..

[@johnwilburn]

@@dskains That's normal carry money for me. I prefer that to credit cards.

[@T3kG33k1337]

It's not even policing. They're just taking people's money and property for nothing but the trouble the put in, to stop the poor person and harass them.

[@dshow1658]

They should never profit off anything

[@danasmith858]

Having cash does not make you a criminal.

[@donjohnson3701]

That is what Fani Willis says.......

[@MickeyMishra]

But in the USA? Anything is possible! 😊

[@alking6633]

I BLAME the Judges because they ALLOW this unlawful behavior.

[@turtlemasterVII]

blame the politicians for they are bribed by these corrupt officers to create laws which allow them to rob civilians

[@potato-dt7se]

It's legal so blame the system

[@ilovenoodles7483]

No, it's people that vote for these judges!!!

[@joesmoe3096]

@@potato-dt7seused to be legal to beat your wife, doesn’t make it right

[@streammasterzappteck4649]

@@ilovenoodles7483 no judge will give them the warrant man man out the blue u buggin

[@danivasquez2441]

Officers are *STEALING* money. Stealing was the word you were looking for.

[@javairflorez7889]

First they kill us now they wanna steal from us ??????!!!! Yea no

[@Zan.Evan.Dawson1243]

These tactics are INTENTIONALLY UNDIGNIFYING --- after the experience ONE CANNOT UNFORGET!!!😡😡😡

[@Tina-mt9cl]

These-officers-don't-what-to-know-what-would-happen-to-them-in-a-civil-war.

[@Koletto]

Legal robbery

[@leondillon8723]

Armed legal robbery. A 211@@Koletto

[@cameltotem8074]

Remember folks, it is completely legal for them to lie to you, but illegal for you to lie to them.

[@Ms.Kelani]

Aka, police are above the law. Crazy, I thought they said no one is above the law. If you make laws that only apply to certain people, that’s unconstitutional.

[@CereCerebration]

And always remember too, police are prosecutors. They work for the court.

[@senseofstile]

I understand. If you ask law enforcement; "Am I being detained? or Am I under arrest?" If they say "yes", how do you know if they are lying?

[@GRice999]

If they ask you your personal business or suspect you of a crime, you can lie to them. If they are investigating another or you're a witness to a crime, then you can't lie to them.

[@douglasscovil3447]

am sure they were lying about being DEA agents, these were just local Atlanta cops trying to illegally confiscate peoples cash.

[@Pad8eyed]

When they ask questions they won’t allow you to walk away, but when you ask them questions they scatter

[@nghtwtchmn129]

A good one to ask them is, "Are you detaining me, or am I free to go?"

[@cmdmd]

I have said it so many times: NEVER TALK TO COPS SAY: "Am I suspected of committing a crime?" then "AM I detained or am I free to go".

[@MickeyMishra]

Remember, they can hold you for investigation for about 30 min. There is so much controversy in this its insane. There really is no solid rule to this as some states have different laws that even go against your civil rights.

[@cdalton3169]

What an absolute disgrace for law enforcement.

[@patriotcountry4716]

It's NOT law enforcement in general. It's the UNITED STATES REGIME/CRIMINAL ENTERPRISE. They all get a cut

[@imagoodlistener2730]

There will be more.and more of this. The Unions and legislation will be looking for unreasonable ways to create new criminals.

[@adamscholl9410]

Law enforcement is a disgrace

[@amramjose]

Illegal search and seizure, taking dollars without due process. There seems to be no protection to victims of this police scam.

[@standingbear998]

this is not new, happens everywhere not just airports.

[@oscarmedina1597]

They should be federally indicted for conducting illegal searches and seizures.

[@spydude38]

It is only illegal if you don't give them consent and they don't then get a warrant. Just say no. Yes, you'll miss your flight, but you retain your civil rights and they will waste all day trying to get a judge to sign a search warrant.

[@DJJonPattrsn22]

​@@spydude38many people van not "afford" (not necessarily financially) to miss their flight.

[@dragonf1092]

​@@spydude38nope it is a felony to do so in violation of title 18 U.S.C. section 241 conspiracy against rights, title 18 U.S.C. section 242 deprivation of rights under color of law, title 5 U.S.C. section 7311 Ex. ORD. No. 10450 subsection (5).

[@dragonf1092]

​@@spydude38consent exists nowhere in the 4th amendment text, only a legal lawful warrant.

[@dragonf1092]

​@@spydude38a competent judge won't issue the warrant they know if it is contested it won't stand in a higher court.

[@moetchandon7391]

Thats the same way scammers and criminals walk away when beeing confronted by journalists that are exposing them. They know they are wrong.

[@nickdadras553]

Fr if I was dirty cop and my homie was one aswell I would be acting just like the agent that got up and left while my homie would be the one telling no to speak to them with those hand signals 😂😂

[@catherinegrimes2308]

I am a Brit and if this behaviour happened in my country it would be a national scandal. The authorities and would jump on the police officers like a ton of bricks. I like America but feel disappointed with the laws in some areas that allow these miscarriages of justice to continue. It looks like legalised theft. That victim was justifiably upset, not only did they steal his money but they humiliated him in public as well. It is a disgrace.

[@shortbreadbiscuit2002]

it does happen in this country. The police can seize cash at the airport if it is over £10,000 and to get it back you have to prove it is legitimately earned money and it belongs to you.

[@MickeyMishra]

Ello, mate!

[@wayneadams7829]

This idea that carrying cash is somehow always a crime is very disturbing

[@biggrizzlybear6774]

I agree. If I want to carry a couple hundred grand, or a couple million, LET me. LOL

[@malachi-]

They want the money and the power and go out with a bang...

[@e.t.ethics1771]

If one is traveling internationally, one has to have cash and even currency other than the US dollar - to pay cabs etc. Airport currency exchange kiosks charge exorbitant fees at many foreign airports!

[@darksaint0124]

Carrying cash is never a crime. There ie no law against it.

[@ontheroad5555]

@@darksaint0124 the difference is they can take your cash then the onus is on you to sue in court to get that money back, Good luck on getting it back., That is really a form of taxation. The government is desperate for money. Cut taxes for the rich. Meanwhile the rich can travel on private jets where these guys would neve show up to search their bags.

[@TheMaster1]

Nothing like violating your 4th Amendment rights.

[@mikewurlitzer5217]

Thanks to the deliberately and dishonestly named "Patriot Act" we no longer have a 4th Amendment in any airport, government building [OUR buildings actually], or in 100% of our electronic communications. DHS is no better than the former USSR's KGB.

[@alexcarter8807]

The Constitution, that's Yankee talk.

[@TheMaster1]

@@alexcarter8807 No twatwaffle that's American talk!

[@christianb8228]

@@TheMaster1twatwaffle😂

[@malahammer]

@@alexcarter8807 so you're not American and the Constitution does not protect you. Watch out for those rights breaking cops.

[@sl44er]

Those "agents" should be held accountable for their crimes.

[@MickeyMishra]

Now imagine who he "Law Makers" are...

[@canttouchDeez]

This "officer" and his cohort's reactions say it all.

[@BlueDueSky]

Great job by this reporter. The guy got balls to confront those officers and help people. God bless America

[@josephtaylor5909]

Yes but it's our rights being abused and tricked more people should step in this is not a legal situation

[@macmen007]

Is he still alive?

[@khuulinh433]

Hahaha it’s a good question , I doubt it , I wish him alots of luck , I myself wonder too , let’s me know if you hear anything news

[@jaybreese7416]

If a god blessed America we wouldn't have these criminal thugs hiding behind badges now would we?

[@camilovasquez1902]

Law enforcement is a disgrace

[@DonIsadick-mf3gv]

What's funny is most people don't carry a lot of money for fear of being robbed. But damn the cops are now the robbers.😐

[@danmosby7980]

we have good laws in australia, proceeds of crime can be taken only AFTER ruling in court. Why you americans allow this corruption of police so they can stop you and rob you in your cars or airports like highwaymen in england 1700's.

[@everythingcrypto5577]

That's why you need gang member to back you up in case the cops turn ghetto 😂

[@pzystembitang2638]

That's a good one!!!!!!!!

[@Four_Eyes]

Anytime I have more than 400-500+ cash on me, I almost feel like I'm doing something illegal. Ridiculous.

[@eddieBoxer]

Strong arm robbery.

[@seriouslyu2000]

Wow, I'm glad you did this report. Imagine planning a trip to LA and becoming an unsuspected victim of this. Your trip is over before it even got started. This looks a lot like profiling.

[@celticman1909]

When I was a kid people used to say "It a free country!" Don't hear that anymore.

[@MickeyMishra]

It's only free if you are a Criminal or not a citizen here. Sad but true.

[@jacknguyen5677]

“It’s a free country” They brainwashed you.

[@smokeldogg]

I’ve never understood why it’s legal for authorities to take people’s cash.

[@shanghunter7697]

I'll gladly help with this, it's because "they" CAN do WHATEVER they want !! They KNOW they can do what they want because we ALL let these things happen. "Matters" such as this WILL only get MUCH worse, you''ll see. Best wishes to you and yours.

[@charles-iii6759]

Because this is a land taken by criminals, run by criminals and ruled by criminals. They make all the rules and the laws, and either change them or brake them any time they see fit.

[@josephtaylor5909]

It's not

[@swgame2511]

It's not legal

[@KJay-eu9gp]

Because it's all they do and are about it's not about purpose really because if that was the case they would clean up the out in open dealing and using in cities

[@Dargodenimco]

This is highway robbery straight up. To just take someone money without finding any drugs and just take their money because they say they’re going to buy drugs with it is crazy.

[@oldsoundz]

They call it 'Drug Interdiction" but we can see what it really is. It happens all day every day and it needs to stop. My family was stopped by a 'Highway Interdiction' cop and hassled for nearly an hour while the cop debated if he should check the van we rented for a road trip..

[@michaelb.8953]

If they truly believed you were going to buy drugs with that roll of cash you have on you to spend legally on your vacation then why aren't they arresting you instead of just confiscating your money and sending you on your way? Because it has absolutely nothing to do with them thinking you're going to buy drugs with that roll of cash.

[@konsumer]

HUGE kin bounties on the deep for these tyrants. Holler for a contract!

[@writerconsidered]

Yes they do the same thing on highways too.

[@chrisburd9751]

the modern day pinkerton's

[@xalspaero]

the police get a CUT of seized cash??? talk about a massive conflict of interest. completely insane.

[@dblocker3145]

"How would you feel if somebody did this to you?". I doubt they'd feel anything, because they probably aren't capable of feeling anything. What you're witnessing is sanctioned crimminal activity. Thieves don't feel for their victims; they view them as weak prey!

[@simonlebon2022]

It's satisfying to see these so called drug agents afraid of the reporter and just quickly walk away when they know they are on camera.

[@bigislander72]

COWARDS!!

[@joshroolf1966]

A public database of these peoples names and faces and credentials, and exact legal authority in any jurisdiction, would be helpful at this point. Their activities seem to thrive on obscurity and public ignorance.

[@jpt4409]

@@joshroolf1966 pigs have successfully argued that the courts should help them illegally hide their identities while they perform shady tactics

[@douglasscovil3447]

they should have asked him for his name and badge number, then they could investigate his PD.

[@92poophatch]

They are afraid, because they are guilty AF.

[@ivanhoe6145]

That is plain robbery and abuse of power. Those "agents" should be held accountable for this crime.

[@Vforfreedom]

youre talking to a wall!! nothing will happen. welcome to Bidens crooked law enforcement!

[@smokingjoe9864]

It is drug money. No other reason to have that kind of cash.

[@Vforfreedom]

@@smokingjoe9864 yeah! or you are a rapper going to buy an exotic car in all cash

[@smokingjoe9864]

@@Vforfreedom a car from a private seller is the only reason. Other wise if the Rapper was legit, he would have an American Express Card.

[@joesmoe3096]

@@Vforfreedomor if you’re buying a business, heavy equipment, going to a crazy party at a strip club, or anything else you want to do with YOUR MONEY

[@kenneththornton4778]

Finally Atlanta. This is news! Excellent job!

[@billcarney829]

"Administratively forfeited" should actually be "Administratively STOLEN".

[@cinner]

The way Fikes walks off and refuses to respond at the end of the video just proves that he knows what he is doing is indeed wrong as hell. These particular people in law enforcement are greedy and disgraceful! I feel awful for the innocent people who have been questioned and had money seized for zero reason.

[@rainbowgaming8441]

when trump finds out about this he will put a stop to this he will not stand for something like this

[@ColinTherac117]

To start with, your bags have already gone through security by the time you are in the boarding area. Anything you could have purchased in the gift shops have passed through security. The area is secure. There is zero reason for an additional search. This is attempted robbery, plain and simple. Civil asset forfeiture must be abolished.

[@scottperry7311]

They are searched for weapons and dangerous items. TSA does not search for cash. In fact since its a mandatory search by TSA seizing the cash would be thrown out in court. Only consent searches or search warrants are found to be legal means of searching someone when seizing cash or evidence, except for weapons or dangerous items found by TSA, hence why people are approached after the TSA search, plus its safer for all involved because of the lack of possible weapons.

[@bobdavis1895]

@@scottperry7311 If you watched the video you would see it's not the TSA, it's the police and sometimes those cops aren't even stationed near the airport.

[@michaell4187]

​@@scottperry7311its theft and you're defending it

[@EndoftheBlock7224]

Keep being weak people, keep voting for these politicians that allow the government beast to get bigger, every time the goverment gets bigger, your rights shrink.

[@dontbanmebrodontbanme5403]

@@scottperry7311 Nonsense. The TSA searches for cash all the time. In fact, many times, dogs are trained to sniff for people carrying money and those people will be pulled over. Usually, issues will only arise if you're carrying more than $10K. If you declare that you are, it's not an issue. Look, at the end of the day, this is simple: it's not illegal to travel with cash, so no one should ever consent to such a search. But as was mentioned in the video, they stop them right before boarding and you know that you have one of two options: either let them search your bags or miss your flight. Sadly, there were people who will defend authority, no matter how far they go in trampling your constitutional rights.

[@jessicascott8784]

This happened to me a few months ago. I was flying out to Las Vegas from CVG in Hebron, KY. We had a large amount of cash because my boyfriend was going to play in a poker tournament in Vegas. They searched our bags and went through our phones. They ended up letting us board last minute because we could show where the money came from but they never gave us a clear reason for the stop or for the search.

[@frankjay8137]

Smh

[@godsanointed4182]

the walk of shame when they are being questioned about their messed up methods

[@dylan6588]

This is low. My heart goes out to the innocent people who were stolen from by the system that supposedly “protects” them.

[@PROVOCATEURSK]

Capitalism only protects the rich. Seize the means of production.

[@adriansalas8424]

Thugs with government backing!

[@melissachartres3219]

These crooked cops aren't afraid of cameras... they're afraid of accountability. They're a disgrace to law enforcement.

[@peter58peter]

they r law enforcement; killers.

[@michaelopheim7549bmw]

Thank you for this report!

[@MrJnew123]

Best answer I have found: "Why are you asking". "Why do you ask?", finally -"Because I wanted to".

[@sharonobryan9713]

Yet so many people refuse to believe they are stealing citizens' "innocent" money. This is beyond disgusting. The fact that they target people by profiling them, often by race, should make this criminal.

[@writerconsidered]

No. It should be illegal period.

[@kelleylynch4490]

We should file a class action suit against DOJ/DEA for their racist thieving.

[@Darren4352]

This same tactic is used by the highway patrol in some states. No crime but you have cash on you. Once they've stolen it, it's almost impossible to get it returned. It's a sad and disgusting situation. 😡

[@newtcrew]

Support 'Criminal Asset Forfeiture' (ie after you have been convicted). Eliminate BS 'Civil Asset Forfeiture'.

[@johnallen7807]

Why? In London 80% of knife crime is black-on-black yet the Met are constantly criticised for "stop and search" of black youth. I assume you're happy to let them die rather than have the knives taken off them?

[@ocbosco_]

This country is in shambles.

[@ExceptionalLibra]

This has been happening for yearssss all around this country.

[@lpg12338]

True. ☹

[@kirkyorg7654]

this has been happening for decades its not something new

[@Konanan]

This is what we call "freedom"

[@christinajones7696]

If you win money in Vegas, you better get a Check or the police will confiscate your cash at the Airport or on the Highway if traveling by vehicle. They are the Cops & the Robbers.

[@Pointlessparodys]

Great work

[@berhaneberhe3545]

Don't Let Any One To Touch Your Bags Unless They Have Warrants To Search Your Bags.

[@sarahnoda]

We NEED more media coverage on this and CIVIL Asset Forfeiture!!! Thank you, please continue documenting this issue.

[@kelleylynch4490]

And racial profiling which US DOJ knows is illegal.

[@davek6854]

KZbin's Steve Lahto covers Civil Asset Forfeiture extensively and often. The Federal Government now considers theft of cash a regular source of income. Just because it's legal doesn't make it right. You going to have to fight to keep from getting robbed. Do not carry cash while traveling or on vacation.

[@steveogle3679]

Never going to happen. Most media just as corrupt as the cops.

[@danmosby7980]

we have good laws in australia, proceeds of crime can be taken only AFTER ruling in court. Why you americans allow this corruption of police so they can stop you and rob you in your cars or airports like highwaymen in england 1700's.

[@pijim96]

We need action from politicians.......or no vote.

[@BBHoffman-ur1oy]

*This is a despicable abuse of authority, and it's absolutely pissing all over people's rights!* The jackass DEA agent essentially threatened the man to get the search. These people need to be held accountable. This is beyond outrageous. These thieves with badges need to be held accountable.

[@gorilladisco9108]

“There is no law so obscene that the police would not be willing to enforce it, up to and including the mass execution of innocent children." - Michael Malice

[@donaldlawson9799]

Accountability is coming whether they want it or not

[@JamieGarrett-ru4rq]

@@donaldlawson9799 Are u referring to judgment day.

[@Salmagundiii]

The "War on Drugs" is a complete farce. It ought to be called the war on minorities.

[@bobdavis1895]

It is the local police not the DEA.

[@freerbt4839]

Amazing!

[@stormand]

Such an important story. Thanks to the journalists and ANF for shining a light on this.

[@MisterKallo]

NEVER give your name, identification, travel details, or reason of travel to anyone unless they can provide their identification and reason of stop. Ask why the search is being done, why was I chosen, what are the suspicions, am I being detained? NO ONE IN PLAIN CLOTHING should stop you and demand a search without your CONSENT.

[@Professor4555]

​@@formosan2823what about if they decide the few hundred dollars or thousands you might have with you are drug money, you obviously haven't met many cops

[@christianmartinez8700]

@@formosan2823idiot they are stealing money

[@MrSupernova111]

@@formosan2823 . Congratulations! You no longer have constitutional rights! You're officially a second-class citizen.

[@Jamezar]

@@formosan2823You do realize those searches are illegal and they are stealing peoples money right? They're not real cops, they're just asking those questions as a cover. You can tell he couldn't care less and was smirking while asking.

[@shanghunter7697]

@@formosan2823 Oh my............ i hope you're ok !!

[@dillardphilosophy3333]

Yet another reason why I don't fly. Years ago I flew to FL (the last time I have flown) to pick up a car that I had purchased on eBay. And I was carrying the full amount of the car with me, in cash. I was paranoid the entire time that I would be stopped, searched, and my money seized "on suspicion" of a "crime." We need to curb the excesses and abuses of warrantless searches and the ability of law enforcement to confiscate personal funds. And we 100% need to get these @$$holes out of the airports!!!

[@IllinoisDemocraticParty]

The same tactics are used on major highways by state police. Arizona State Police, Utah Highway Patrol, Florida Highway patrol all use these tactics and seize money. A combat veteran recently had his entire life savings seized for no lawful reason after being by stopped by police on the interstate.

[@kapdolkim1914]

Unfortunately, same thing happens when you are driving.

[@carlmorgan8452]

Pirates ☠ call them what they are

[@Retsam03]

Its called "Asset Forfeiture" they aren't looking for drugs. They are looking for the money! They seize it.. then their department gets a kick back from it. They wrap you up in court to where you will pay more in lawyers then was seized to make it so it isn't worth getting back....FREE MONEY for them!! They don't need a warrant because YOU gave them permission to search! NEVER, NEVER, NEVER give them permission to search!!! This is the same when they pull you over when driving! They will threaten to get the drug dog. etc, etc.. CALL THEM ON IT!!! 80% of the time they will let you go without searching. The other 20% you have grounds to sue them for extending the stop. "Which is ILLEGAL" Don't take my word for it.. call a lawyer. Heck there are plenty here on the Tube that talk about it.

[@tallymaster2222]

They violate your rights and make your scared to say anything what does that make our country?

[@billwindsor4224]

Excellent investigative reporting, Atlanta News First. Thank you for doing this. 🏆🏆

[@princetom5416]

Thank you for exposing them

[@scottysgarage4393]

Refuse the search. Miss your flight. Record everything. ALWAYS be willing to go as far as necessary, including harassing lawsuits against them afterwards. These people are criminals themselves and must be opposed at every instance.

[@deadtimber]

Amen!

[@dukester9506]

That's the answer. People are not willing to be inconvenienced to protect their rights. Use your right to remain silent inform the police they do not have the right to search your bags,I'd or nothing else without an warrant and be willing to go to jail.

[@ontheroad5555]

The agents have immunity but you can sue the agency for their practices.

[@grantyentis5507]

Letting any department benefit from confiscated property is a conflict of interest and should not be allowed. Nobody should consent to a search!

[@emmanuelgelatimesa2712]

American dream

[@Big_Island_Boi]

Yeah... but that's how the crooked system works. Same with cops pulling people over on state and federal hightways. If they catch you with drugs / money / etc they will not only arrest you but seize your vehicle and any other property and sell it at auction. They local agency that makes the find / arrest gets to keep a big chunk of the cash and proceeds from sale of anything else they seize. It's a dirty game. But so is drug dealing. So in those case, I don't feel too much sympathy for the criminals who get caught with a trunk load of meth or fentanyl. But in the airport??? On the other side of the TSA checkpoint??? Oh, hell no. Fvck that.

[@cryptobigboss]

"I see the finish line" that says a lot right there, lol.

[@corner559]

That's outrageous. This should be illegal and the people who took the money held accountable. What happened to innocent until proven guilty?

[@chadhiggins9944]

The second you ask him questions he freezes up and gets uncomfortable. Well what he's doing is a million times worse! What an absolute hypocrite.

[@dansiwek3593]

The guilt is real yo.....:)

[@cigarpanda]

Civil Asset Forfeiture should be deemed unconstitutional. Abolish the DEA and TSA

[@CertfedPoke]

Cops are panzis

[@fognua]

it is unconstitutional just like many other lawa

[@CycleST1300]

It will never stop as long as the government gets their cut.

[@65stang98]

and atf and nfa

[@alx.8721]

This, not many people know about this. See that vet, trucker dude who got pulled over and had his entire savings take. From. Him? It’s infuriating

[@irmakalember9403]

Wow crazy

[@dammitbobby283]

Put a BIG dill do covered in peanut butter in the bag and act suspicious, try to get someone to search your bags. 😂😂

[@seattlefishing4240]

These cops sure didn't want to be stopped and questioned now did they? I would be ashamed if my kid grew up and did this. Literally criminals.

[@thooks1234]

Came here to say this. They took off and ran when questioned.

[@josephtaylor5909]

I'm sure it's that towns police office up to no good robbing the nearby airports

[@markrouse2416]

Lousy cowards do it at airports because they can rob people that have no guns.

[@Mytrucklife222]

@@thooks1234so true.

[@rshots1530]

They hate having their authority and decency questioned, they know what they are doing is BS.

[@sharthun2009]

I would have refused to allow them to search my stuff and refused to answer a single question even if it meant me missing my flight. If you do not stand up and use your rights you will in fact loose them.

[@jameswest9261]

Story said they will just seize your cash. Also said they arrest very few people.They are revenue collectors. FOLLOW THE MONEY. Perhaps we should defund the police. Appears their stealing to finance their operations anyway.

[@dermick]

I agree with you, but sadly not everyone has the time or resources to do that. Missing a flight like this might mean missing work, or having to buy a new ticket. I'm happy that the news is covering this kind of abuse. What's even more terrifying is that they keep the money they seize, and getting it back might take months or years, if ever. It's a shameful abuse of power.

[@COO415]

​​@@dermick. I feel ya. That's why I keep every single ATM transaction for anything between$20 - $2,000. So do receipts for $20+ plus over the counter. It's my damn money, I'll do as I damn please. I'll give you receipts from CHASE or Fargo and you can go fukc yourself with it😅

[@mvondras]

This is just a new take on the highway men of old.

[@bodystomp5302]

Me also. No consent, no answering questions, no small talk. I’ll catch a ride home another way.

[@MondoBeno]

This happened to me once in another airport. The first thing I said was that my bag had already been xrayed. Then I refused to consent to a search, and they threatened to detain me and make me miss my flight. Fine, go ahead, check the bag. They asked me all the same annoying questions, and I responded with, "I'm not talking to you," over and over again, like a broken record. They gave up.

[@danielyemane4355]

Scary

[@elcajoia619]

They say DEA, then why is the local police there? Where are the Port Police? How can this be justified when it clearly is Unconstitutional?

[@john2g1]

The DEA (and ATF) tend to partner with local police agencies and they "deputize" them into federal service. Additionally, the city of Atlanta does not have a Port authority Port police or anything else like that. The Atlanta Airport is wholly owned by the city of Atlanta and is covered by Atlanta police and Fire. However, the land itself is in Clayton County, hence the shenanigans with random Black people getting "random screenings" from Clayton County police. Not to say the Atlanta Police Department is perfect by any means check out ANF coverage of "Cop City". It's just that Atlanta tends to steer clear of a certain type of bias by definition.

[@ducatipaso1386]

All partner agencies involved in seizure get a peice of the asset forfeiture money for their budget.

[@christianjohnson8838]

​@@john2g1😢😢 3:57

[@battlethebollocksrodgers9173]

Because we live in the land of confusion they're chopping us down at the stump

[@john2g1]

@@christianjohnson8838 Yeah I have no idea how Brookhaven PD has any jurisdiction at all. I can only guess that the DEA has jurisdiction (federal agency) and he was deputized into the DEA. The whole system is shady and Constitutionally questionable. But hey this is something you can legitimately blame on Joe Biden. He was the main guy pushing civil asset forfeiture when he was a senator.

[@cordelearts]

As a Georgia attorney, if they are a government agent then don’t answer any questions , nor do you let them search your bag without a warrant. Period.

[@MikoWorldwide]

That’s correct because you see they didn’t answer any questions

[@infinitexps]

What if they threaten to have you wait for them to get K-9? Can you ignore them and proceed into your flight?

[@cordelearts]

@@infinitexps it’s kidnapping. Let them call the dog, you immediately find a lawyer after you land. Let the lawyer tell you if calling the k9 and missing your flight were legal. Don’t give-in without a search warrant.

[@pamjedlicka8451]

@@infinitexps No warrant, no search. If this ever happens to you and you are willing to stand up for your rights, as every American should, ask for credentials. Take down names and badge numbers, names of agencies they represent, names of their supervisors. Call airport security. Call the gate agent over. Make your own scene. My bet is once you start doing this, they'll back off. No, you do not have my 'cold consent' to search my bag and I am boarding this plane now. Then walk away. This is absolutely outrageous and an illegal detainment and search. Shame on them.

[@scottperry7311]

@@cordelearts Its not kidnapping, if they have probable cause. But that probable cause better be good if they cause you to miss your flight.

[@syourke3]

This is outrageous!

[@muhannadobeidat]

Thank you for reporting and exposing this. How can something like this happen in the greatest country on earth that humanity came to know.

[@MrEqtube]

That is simple: you have been lied to believe that US is the greatest country.

[@Vendemiair]

Taking the supposed "drug money" is the most nonsensical thing I've ever heard! Isn't there supposed to be a presumption of innocence? If the authorities cannot prove the money is for buying drugs, then it should stay with you. How the heck are you supposed to prove it isn't for drugs? It's a legalized form of corruption because the people who do it benefit from confiscating the purported drug money.

[@donaldkgarman296]

IT IS THE MONEY ITSELF WHICH MUST PROVE ITSELF INNOCENT......YOU CANNOT PROVE A NEGATIVE , THEREFORE YOU LOSE .

[@avi8r66]

It's known as Civil Asset Forfeiture, they seize billions a year this way. They don't use the money as evidence, if they did the seized money would be checked into evidence and stored. They grab it, count it, and then spend it themselves.

[@DonIsadick-mf3gv]

Yeah. Innocent until proven guilty apparently doesn't apply if the police department get to keep a percentage of the money they steal from people.

[@konsumer]

HUGE kin bounties on the deep for these tyrants. Holler for a contract!

[@newtcrew]

Lobby your local Congressman to pass 'Criminal Assets Forfeiture' and get rid of the BS 'Civil Asset Forfeiture' where you have to supposedly prove that your money wasn't involved in illegal activity. Problem is that everyone is likely on the dole and hence the reason this would never pass.

[@CereCerebration]

I'm white, and this happened to me as I was departing Madrid, Spain. I came very close to missing my flight home after they took their sweet time searching my carry-ons and purse in a 'randomly selected' search, pulling everything out and laying it all out on a folding table for everyone to see - including my measly $100 travel money, which they didn't take, thankfully. It is demeaning and incredibly stressful and makes you feel completely powerless, scared and angry.

[@zd9775]

that's humiliating.

[@utistudent099]

I am also White and I got selected from the line at Barajas , but not quite as detailed. Very upsetting. This was back in 1999.

[@myphd-myprisonhistorydiplo691]

Same thing happened to me in Cozumel….not as intense as this poor guy. This cash thing is stealing!!

[@2pugman]

Back in the 80's I often flew with one thousand as pocket cash. Would they take that cash today ?

[@Yourmomshassole]

I am white shouldn’t be the qualifier of any sentence ever

[@Vforfreedom]

That Atlanta Hartsfield airport must be a hotbed of drug people going to purchase drugs

[@JonSerrato]

Great journalistic work! Bravo for confronting this abuse of power.

[@davidturner4987]

This is crazy and any normal minded person knows it's wrong. These men are morally bankrupt.

[@josteinholen1312]

People have no problem acting evil if they are given the authority.

[@MyJob-zl5de]

And cops want to know why they are hated

[@zsleepwalker]

Are you assuming cops care if they are hated?

[@MyJob-zl5de]

@@zsleepwalker they will on the day of Chaos. They be first in line.

[@douglasscovil3447]

@@zsleepwalker eventually the point will come when the cops are going to care very much about being hated. people are not going to indefinitely put up with having their rights violated all the time.

[@chris-dd6uq]

@@zsleepwalker People do care. That's why so many people don't want to do the job. I've met people who refuse to become cops because they don't want to possibly end up being fed to the wolves for doing their jobs.

[@getprobed838]

if the department gets a 9% cut of the cash seized, that shows at least 9% or it never gets reclaimed. so some of the people they stole the money from never got it back.

[@rubyruby6358]

This is outrageous.

[@ScrubGigs-ph1sk]

Of all the crime being committed within the metro-Atlanta area, they focus on the airport. The mayor, DA, Sheriff, Chief of Police and all other officials need to be FIRED immediately and lawsuits filed from each passenger who was unjustly searched and/or property seized!

[@jameswest9261]

Officers do not want to face a criminal one on one. You must remember that above all else, OFFICER SAFETY.

[@user-oz9yy5xj6c]

when I travel to 3rd world countries I tell people the US is just as corrupt, the people are blind and stupid..

[@spydude38]

Its not even about crime to be honest. This is all about knowing that innocent people carry cash are in a location where you have them cornered. That is why they do this just as you are about to board your flight. Its to make it as inconvenient as possible on you so that you'll willingly give them consent to search you and when they find cash they seize it. It is like a bear in the river waiting for the salmon to swim upstream and they get you there. All designed to make it as easy as possible for them and as difficult as possible to you.

[@jasonmartinez9545]

the airport is just their turf

[@chrisburd9751]

its easy to obfuscate blame for their inability to govern. The otherside of the political isle is way fucking more corrupt and incompetent. This is a summary of all things in the 50 continental.

[@davestevens4193]

Never consent to a search. Invoke your rights.

[@easy288]

Naturally they catch people in line for boarding. Who wants to miss their flight and the hassles associated with that? So they consent. This is ridiculous and needs to stop. they have absolutely no probable cause to search the bags, they cant get a warrant. This is simply stealing. Any why are they targeting flights to L.A.?

[@johnnycole7990]

Finally some real journalism

[@hisham63polaris17]

Yes

[@bencool8239]

Unconstitutional. Do not consent.

[@squirrelcovers6340]

They'll just throw you in jail...

[@bencool8239]

@@squirrelcovers6340 jail? For what crime? They said if you don't sign consent they get a warrant or get a dog to do a sniff.....watch the video......then you sue em for violating your rights..

[@targgthewise2892]

@@squirrelcovers6340ok then. Thanks for the early retirement as that would be an illegal arrest. Derp

[@dennisd9554]

That's the bottom line. Without articulable probable cause, they can't detain you for the time it takes to get a warrant (remember they don't have to articulate it to you but be able to in court later, and "he/she looked suspicious" doesn't fly). If approached by them, I'd start filming right away, tell them you do not consent to a search, and when they ask why say you reserve the right to remain silent. The only thing you should say beyond "I do not consent" is "am I being detained, am I free to go?".

[@renaldolama9517]

You don't travel much do you? Inside and airport secure zone after TSA, you have very little constitutional rights. Search and seizure rules are non existent, lengthy detainment is allowed. All in the name of security. @@bencool8239

[@fogwyg6366]

GLAD YOU SHARED THERE FACES NOW MORE PEOPLE WILL BE AWARE OF WHAT THEY DO!!! THANK YOU

[@BitSmythe]

*THEIR* faces…

[@fogwyg6366]

@@BitSmythe THEAR FASES

[@CereCerebration]

Amazing how they intimidate their prey, demanding answers to insulting questions, but won't make a single response to the questions asked of them by a reporter. Thank you to that reporter ... this is the kind of investigative reporting we rarely see anymore.

[@ICUFREE2]

The serious Dad bods too.

[@NYRM1974]

This needs to STOP NOW . !

[@thephoenixjournals]

Absolutely disgusting greedy and criminal

[@Mlogan11]

What is the point of the TSA search if you can be literally hijacked at the last minute by these guys for another search and even have your money declared "guilty" and taken if you can't immediately prove it's not dirty? This is hella shady.

[@mm-ln9sw]

it’s like highway robbery meets airport terminal 😂

[@markthebuilder9837]

TSA points you out to these guys. I'm betting there are kickbacks.

[@davebolaton7639]

TSA often calls them to report they saw cash when scanning your bags. NEVER consent to a search.

[@spydude38]

TSA is there to screen for threats to aviation passengers. DEA is there to take everyone's milk money like they did back in elementary school.

[@pamjedlicka8451]

@@davebolaton7639 ICE used to have a bulk cash smuggling operation but I thought that was only for outgoing or incoming international flights. What they are doing in this video is illegal and unconstitutional. As someone said, you don't even have to stop for them.

[@sarita5572]

It's crazy that they have TSA security, and they still do this. This sounds scandalous! Wonder how many "bonuses" these agents walk away with. 🤔

[@mikewurlitzer5217]

TSA just another agency under DHS fully weaponized against Americans.

[@markthebuilder9837]

The TSA will tip off these guys when cash is seen.

[@CereCerebration]

@@markthebuilder9837 I tend to believe that. Especially at Atlanta, where the TSA agents are really gruff, and tend to yell commands at people. No other airport has so many employees who are just randomly yelling at people as Atlanta.

[@thejerk95]

I being yelled at.

[@harleygould7255]

I have to wonder how much of that money actually gets turned into "evidence holding", and how much just...magically disappears....

[@70-860]

Did you interview the supervisors of these officers, the head of the department? What's their response in writing?

[@PunchoLive]

They have soo much Power its scary.

[@kroanosm617]

If they can find people willing to do this to innocent citizens then they can find people to violate any and all our rights. It needs to stop.

[@pauliedweasel]

The faces of these officers need to be published everywhere with their identities and the agencies they work for.

[@KCCardCo]

Excellent reporting 👍👍👍👍 Their names need to be revealed. The next time I hope the reporter asks them "What's in your bag"?

[@RelentlessB]

I love the way the reporter showed up, knowing their name’s!!!

[@arnman2093]

Civil Asset Forfeiture should be illegal. They are looking for your cash. Drugs have nothing to do with it.

[@johnwilburn]

All the interstate stops happen on the side where the money goes back, not the side where the drugs come in. It’s organized crime with a badge.

[@danmosby7980]

we have good laws in australia, proceeds of crime can be taken only AFTER ruling in court. Why you americans allow this corruption of police so they can stop you and rob you in your cars or airports like highwaymen in england 1700's.

[@Whoareyouwhoami665]

Yep

[@imwatchingyoutonight]

Great investigative reporting. Shameful on all agencies involved in this scam.

[@joellowery]

Never answer any questions without attorney..

[@danharold3087]

There is a real danger in setting up the law where the law enforcement can benefit by taking money or goods from the people. It invites abuse.

[@julieproctor6039]

💯💯💯💯💯

[@C.A.MARSUPIAL]

This is plain and simple organised crime

[@nikitakucherov5028]

Absolutely 100% the police dept should NOT EVER get a cut of any asset even assets obtained when there was actually a crime. Why giving a cut is a bad idea should seem obvious.

[@but199018]

Literally stealing cash!!! This is insane!!!! I’m surprised nobody lost it and told them to kick rocks!!! Detain me so I can sue.

[@thomasrodante3602]

Unbelievable…….

[@kidplayinginthemud9284]

Either boycott the airport or sue them . The airport is harboring these criminals and their activities. The cops know the money is being confiscated illegally thus making their seizures unlawful.

[@DJJonPattrsn22]

Good luck with that law suit! And it currently is NOT illegal or unlawful. That's why they are doing it! Although it needs to be made illegal ASAP!

[@92poophatch]

Just take one look at the cops body language when confronted. Guilty and shady AF.

[@lrh57psi]

Definitely boycott. It's a stop going going to central America. I'm gonna reroute next time. Not that I even carry that much money. But I'm just going to save headaches.

[@ianbattles7290]

It's mind-boggling that innocent, paying customers are expected to tolerate this kind of treatment at the hands of law enforcement.

[@whodisnewphone]

Shoulda asked "Got ID" lol "Mind if I search YOUR bag?"

[@safrazhusain9612]

This is a clear example of government going rogue

[@user-dw1ls3rp1l]

NEVER consent to a search. If they do one anyway without a warrant or PC, it makes it a heck of a lot easier to get back whatever they steal from you.

[@gschaaf713]

i GoT nOThInG tO hIdE

[@hoofhearted1833]

@@gschaaf713Everyone in prison is innocent, too. 😂

[@jcambel6220]

True! Let them get their dog if they want to search your bag or your car.

[@user-dw1ls3rp1l]

@@jcambel6220 Not even that. Let them know you do not want to stick around. If they make you, they will have to detain you, and be required to explain why in court.

[@gschaaf713]

huh?@@hoofhearted1833

[@raulramirez6155]

Congratulations on this excellent reporting. Please continue your investigation on this abuse of power.