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Carrying a Concealed Weapon into an Unauthorized Place – Florida Statute 790.06(12)(a) (WEAP2011)
Arrested at the Airport with a Firearm in Florida?
If you or a loved one has been arrested under Florida Statute 790.06(12)(a) for Carrying a Concealed Weapon into an Unauthorized Place (WEAP2011) — such as a TSA security checkpoint — you are facing a serious misdemeanor offense. The implications extend beyond criminal penalties: you may also lose your concealed weapons permit, face federal scrutiny, and risk long-term consequences for professional licensing, immigration, and employment.
This guide answers the most frequently asked questions about WEAP2011, explains what to expect if charged, and shows how an experienced criminal defense lawyer like W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr. can help.
What does Florida Statute 790.06(12)(a) say?
Under Florida Statute § 790.06(12)(a), it is unlawful for a person with a concealed carry license to bring a firearm into:
“…any place of nuisance as defined in s. 823.05; any police, sheriff, or highway patrol station; any detention facility, prison, or jail; any courthouse; any courtroom… [and] any passenger terminal of an airport…”
Even with a valid concealed weapon license, you may not carry a firearm into a “sterile area” of an airport, defined as the TSA screening area beyond which travelers have direct access to boarding gates.
Real Case Example: Firearm Found in Airport Backpack
In a police report in a recent case from Tampa International Airport (TIA / TPA) the police wrote:
“The Defendant entered the TSA screening area at Airside A, Lane 2A… in possession of a High Standard .22 Magnum firearm with 2 rounds of .22 caliber ammunition inside his backpack. The Defendant confirmed the backpack was his. Firearm possession is prohibited inside the passenger terminal’s sterile area.”
This scenario commonly leads to charges under WEAP2011, often initiated by TSA officers and enforced by local law enforcement such as the Tampa International Airport Police.
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Questions and Answers
Carrying a Concealed Weapon into Unauthorized Place
§ 790.06(12)(a)
Second-Degree Misdemeanor
Up to 60 days in jail, 6 months probation, $500 fine
Possibly. While this is typically charged under state law, depending on the facts, federal agencies such as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) may impose civil penalties or refer cases to federal prosecutors. According to the TSA’s website, civil penalties for firearms discovered at security checkpoints can exceed $15,000.
Yes. If you are convicted or even arrested under this statute, your concealed weapon license may be suspended or revoked. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services manages CWL permits and may act quickly after an airport firearm arrest. Learn more about CWL suspensions
Yes, lack of intent is a common defense. Florida law requires knowing possession in many cases. If you accidentally brought the firearm, you may avoid conviction with the help of a skilled lawyer who can present:
Surveillance evidence
Witness testimony
TSA interviews
Lack of prior incidents
Yes — but only if: You are not convicted; and You have no prior adjudications of guilt for other offenses.
Expungement or sealing of your record can help you avoid collateral consequences like job loss, immigration issues, and denial of housing. Learn about expungement in Florida
What are common defenses to WEAP2011 charges?
Top 5 Defenses for WEAP2011 Charges:
- Lack of Knowledge – Forgot firearm was in luggage.
- Lack of Intent – Not intending to bring weapon into secure area.
- Improper Search – TSA or police exceeded lawful authority.
- Legal Possession, Improper Location – Confusion over what areas were restricted.
- First-Time Offender Program – Diversion eligibility in some counties.
An experienced defense lawyer may be able to negotiate a withhold of adjudication or diversion program to avoid a criminal record.
Video: What Happens When You’re Caught With a Gun at TSA Checkpoint?
This video explains how weapons arrests are handled in Hillsborough County, Florida.
I once represented a person who was arrested and charged with possessing a weapon at the Tampa International Airport. They charged her with introducing a weapon onto an aircraft. That case got dismissed. The feds later tried to get her to pay money to them as a fine. Airport Bookmark Tale – Charges Dismissed
How can a criminal defense lawyer help?
Attorney W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr. is a former prosecutor and Florida Bar Board Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer who defends clients charged with gun-related offenses, including WEAP2011.
With experience handling TSA checkpoint cases, he can:
- Examine TSA screening reports and videos
- Challenge unlawful searches
- Negotiate with prosecutors
- Represent you in court or pretrial diversion
Why hire W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr.?
✅ Board Certified in Criminal Trial Law
✅ Former Prosecutor
✅ Tampa-Based Defense for TSA Firearm Charges
✅ 20+ Years of Experience
📞 Contact Attorney Ebsary Today for a free case review.
Quick Facts: WEAP2011 – Concealed Weapon in Unauthorized Place
| Statute | Florida Statute § 790.06(12)(a) |
|---|---|
| Charge | Carrying Concealed Weapon into Unauthorized Place |
| Common Locations | Airports, courthouses, schools, police stations |
| Level | 2nd-Degree Misdemeanor |
| Penalty | Up to 60 days jail, 6 months probation, $500 fine |
| Possible Civil Fines | TSA penalties up to $15,000 |
Arrested for WEAP2011? Here’s What to Do:
- Don’t make statements to TSA or police.
- Call a lawyer immediately — invoke your right to counsel.
- Save documentation: boarding passes, ticket stubs, bag tags.
- Request airport video footage, if available.
- Contact Attorney W.F. Casey Ebsary to begin your defense.
📞 Schedule Your Free Consultation Now
If you’ve been charged under Florida Statute 790.06(12)(a), you’re not alone — but you need the right legal advocate on your side. W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr. offers aggressive defense and board-certified expertise to protect your rights and fight for your future.
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