On Wednesday, Florida law enforcement took a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officer into custody at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport following allegations of her forcefully shoving a 79-year-old traveler. According to authorities, Janiyah Wilson-Robinson, a 21-year-old from Margate, Broward County, is accused of committing aggravated battery against an elderly woman from Palm Beach Gardens by forcefully pushing her with the palms of her hands.
The elderly woman lost her balance and hit her forehead, as stated by the police. Although medical personnel offered her an ice pack, she declined further hospital treatment. She was scheduled to fly with JetBlue to California and suffered "minor bruises" from the incident. Wilson-Robinson spent Wednesday night in custody at the North Broward Bureau Detention Center and was released on Thursday on a $1,000 bond.
The officer has been placed on administrative leave pending an investigation into the matter. A TSA spokesperson informed Fox News of the arrest, stating, "The Transportation Security Administration is aware of the recent arrest of one of our officers. TSA holds its employees to the highest standards of professionalism and integrity, and we do not tolerate actions that undermine these standards or the public's trust." They further confirmed full cooperation with law enforcement in the ongoing investigation.
Past Incidents of Violence at Fort Lauderdale Airport
In a separate incident years ago at the same airport, a violent brawl broke out between two female travelers after one refused to wear a COVID-19 facial mask. The women, who traveled from Chicago, resisted wearing masks at one of the airport gates. As a result, a crowd of onlookers began to mock and criticize their actions, which eventually led to a physical altercation.
During the skirmish, airport authorities intervened, managing to restrain one of the women on the ground.
FAQs on Airport Security and Passenger Safety
What happened to the TSA officer involved in the incident?
The TSA officer, Janiyah Wilson-Robinson, was arrested and later released on a $1,000 bond. She is on administrative leave while the investigation is ongoing.
How did the elderly passenger get injured?
The elderly passenger was injured when she was allegedly pushed by the TSA officer, causing her to lose balance and hit her forehead. She sustained minor bruises but declined hospital treatment.
What measures are being taken by TSA regarding the incident?
TSA has placed the officer on administrative leave and is fully cooperating with law enforcement in the investigation. They emphasize their commitment to high standards of professionalism and integrity.