A veteran Boston cop could face jail after being accused of misleading TSA agents which allowed him to board flights with his police issue firearm.
Sgt. Detective Bruce E. Smith of the Boston PD repeatedly told airport officials he was flying on police business when in fact he was taking personal trips.
He made false statements to TSA agents on 28 flights from 2011 to 2017, saying he had authorization from a police department superintendent to fly with his weapon.
Smith made an appearance in federal court to answer charges which could land him in prison for 10 years.
He also entered a secure airport area ‘with intent to evade security requirements,’ prosecutors allege.
He was bailed and is now on paid administrative leave.
According to court papers law enforcement officers must complete a TSA flying armed training course and have permission from a supervisor before being allowed on an aircraft with a firearm.
Boston police commissioner William B. Evans said the charges are ‘troubling.’
"I hold my officers to the highest of standards and expect that they conduct themselves in a truthful and professional manner both on and off duty. As law enforcement professionals, we have an obligation and a responsibility to enforce and obey laws, not exploit them for personal convenience."
Smith is also accused of twice escorting a personal friend through Boston Logan Airport bypassing security screening, insisting he was a ‘dignitary.’
When asked about the person’s identity, Smith allegedly replied: "I am not at liberty to divulge that information."
Smith’s friend, named as Leroy Ross, has not been charged but has a prior criminal record, according to reports.
