An Arizona woman has been given a four-month prison sentence for assaulting a TSA agent who confiscated her apple juice at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Ma’Kiah Cherae Coleman, a 20-year-old from Glendale, was found guilty of attacking a federal officer on April 25, 2023.
Coleman became agitated when the TSA agent removed her juice at a security checkpoint early in the morning. She lashed out by hitting the agent, pulling their hair, slamming their head against a baggage screening area table, and punching them multiple times before being subdued by other TSA agents.
As a result of the altercation, two agents required medical attention, and around 450 travelers were affected as the checkpoint had to be temporarily closed. The TSA reported that the incident caused significant disruptions.
Recently, United States District Judge Douglas Rayes sentenced Coleman to four months in prison and 36 months of supervised release. Additionally, she is prohibited from traveling by commercial aircraft for the duration of her court supervision.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of complying with airport security protocols and treating TSA agents with respect. Assaulting federal officers is a serious offense that can have severe consequences. It is crucial for travelers to remain calm and cooperative during security screenings to ensure the safety and efficiency of air travel.
