Airport security guard makes up threat to cover drinking problem

Airline Industry Information, Nov 21, 2001

AIRLINE INDUSTRY INFORMATION-(C)1997-2001 M2 COMMUNICATIONS LTD

A security hoax at Reno-Tahoe International Airport in Nevada, USA caused delays to some 12 flights on 16 November.

The hoax, involving an alleged security breach, was caused by private security guard Cheryl Shears, who the FBI says made up a story that she confiscated a three-inch knife off a man who later took it back, followed her into a restroom and threatened her with a gun so that she would not report the incident. The FBI says that Shears has admitted concocting the story in order to hide her drinking problem, according to The Associated Press. Shears had apparently gone to get an alcoholic drink while at work and when discovered stated that she had bought the drink to calm her nerves after she was threatened.

Shears has been charged with making a false official material statement and could face up to five years in prison if convicted. The airport's south terminal was cleared of all passengers for two hours on 16 November because of the incident.

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