DALLAS — A Dallas hairstylist says security officers at Atlanta's airport humiliated her when they subjected her large Afro hairstyle to a search in open view of other arriving passengers.
Isis Brantley said a Transportation Security Administration officer stopped her while she was waiting on a train platform after she passed through security Monday, and insisted on searching her hair for weapons. She said the search in full public view brought her to tears.
"She was all in my hair, checking my hair," Brantley told News 8. "It was humiliating, very disrespectful. I was very distraught. How could you do this to me in front of everyone?"
Brantley said she was not offered a private screening, something the TSA disputes.
The TSA issued this release on the matter:
"TSA's screening procedures are designed to ensure the security of the traveling public. Additional screening may be required for clothing, headwear or hair where prohibited items could be hidden. This passenger left the checkpoint prior to the completion of the screening process and was offered, but refused private screening."
Brantley said she says she doesn't mind being searched, as long as it's done respectfully. She would also like an apology.
"I would love it if TSA could make a public apology to me, and let me know that I am safe to travel and that they will follow their procedures," Brantley said.
