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TSA officer charged with stealing passenger's money at Pittsburgh International Airport

TSA officer charged with stealing passenger's money at Pittsburgh airport
TSA officer charged with stealing passenger's money at Pittsburgh airport 02:33

A Transportation Security Administration officer at the Pittsburgh International Airport is facing charges for allegedly stealing money from a passenger during the screening process. 

Allegheny County police said 39-year-old Richard Bruce was charged with theft by unlawful taking and receiving stolen property after investigators received a report from a passenger about missing money on Wednesday afternoon. 

A spokesperson for the TSA said it's aware of the charges and Bruce has been placed on administrative leave. The TSA said it's cooperating with law enforcement but the spokesperson didn't share any other details, citing an ongoing investigation.  

"TSA holds its employees to the highest standards of professionalism and integrity, and we do not tolerate behavior that violates these standards or the public's trust," the TSA spokesperson said in a statement. 

A spokesperson for the Pittsburgh International Airport said that while Bruce isn't employed by the airport, Bruce's airport badge has been deactivated. 

"Safety and security are always the top priority at Pittsburgh International Airport. We take any allegations of theft at the airport seriously and are working with our partner agencies to assist in the investigation," the airport said in a statement. 

Travelers react to allegations against TSA officer

Brian Hucik of Youngwood never worries about going through TSA when flying.

"Always just put my wallet and items in my bags and let it go through the security checkpoint," Hucik said.

He believes as federal employees, agents know they have an oath to follow.

"Making sure everything is secure, making sure the passengers are secure," Hucik said.

Shandon Baker of Idaho frequently flies for work and would like to know that TSA is weeding out the bad apples.

"Just like they have to check us for security, hopefully you know they're getting checked as well and that we can fly with peace of mind," Baker said.

"You assume, based on what this job entails that that wouldn't ever happen, like you're trusting these people with your personal belongings," Baker added.

As for Baker and Hucik, they're going to be a little more guarded with their belongings when they fly from now on.

"Hope, you know, everyone can travel safely and not have to worry about things like this," Hucik said.

The incident remains under investigation. If you have any information about it, you're asked to call county police at 1-833-ALL-TIPS. 

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