It seems like I am seeing more and more people arrested at DFW International Airport and Dallas Love Field for having a gun or illegal knife on them when they attempt to go through the screening at the airport. The law states that a person commits an offense if the person intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly possesses or goes with a firearm, illegal knife, club, or prohibited weapon in or into a secured area of an airport.

With the new heightened standards with airport security, if you forget your concealed handgun or knife was in your purse or bag when you go though security, you can bet you will be arrested and charged with a felony offense of places weapons prohibited.

The good news for you is that accidents are still accidents and not crimes. Fifteen years ago, security officers and the airport police departments were allowed to use their judgment when deciding if it was an accident or the intent of a person to take a gun into an airport. That discretion is long gone. If you are arrested at the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport your case will be sent to the Tarrant County District Attorney for prosecution. If you are arrested at Dallas Love Field your case will be sent to the Dallas District Attorney.

It is very important that you contact a good criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible to hopefully prevent the case from being indicted by the Grand Jury. There are many steps that can be taken by a qualified criminal defense lawyer to make sure the State has a full understanding of what happen while still protecting your constitutional rights.

How can a person forget they have a gun in their possession? Trust me, it happens. And when it does, your heart will drop when you realize what you have done. I am a supporter of the concealed handgun license. I personally think more of us should take advantage of the wonderful privilege we have in this state. However, I have noticed that some people with a concealed handgun license have a tendency to become complacent with the passage of time. You become so accustom to carrying your weapon you forget you have it. And if you are a frequent traveler, you become so accustom to going through airport security, you hardly even think about it. And that’s when it happens. A person who has worked hard all their life, gone through a rigorous background check just to apply for their license, is now arrested, jailed and facing a felony charge. Please contact me as soon as possible to discuss your case. It’s important to take a proactive role with the District Attorney as soon as possible

Gun and Firearm Charges,