Marine Detained at Airport for a UXO in His Checked Baggage

Palm Springs, California A U.S. Marine was detained at Palm Springs International Airport on after Transportation Security Administration (TSA) personnel discovered a live munition in his checked bag, according to a statement from the Palm Springs Police Department.

The Marine reportedly told police that he found the round "in the field" about a year ago and kept it because he did not believe it was live. It was later confirmed to be a live 25 mm explosive round.

In a statement police said, "Due to extensive rust and corrosion, the round's original identifying paint markings were no longer visible, making it difficult to determine whether it was an inert training munition or a live explosive device."

The Riverside County bomb squad was called in to X-ray the device which was deemed live and not a training round. The ordnance was taken to a remote area for disposal and no injuries were reported.

The Riverside County District Attorney's Office is reviewing the case to determine if there will be any criminal charges under a California statute that prohibits possession of "any destructive device." The Marine was released to military authorities and could face administrative action and possible civil penalties from TSA, according to police.