Nashville Criminal Defense Lawyer for Airport Arrests
Nashville Criminal Defense Lawyer & Former Prosecutor Kevin Kennedy. 615-205-7311. Call or text for a free consultation.
An Arrest at BNA Can Create Both Criminal and Travel Problems
Nashville International Airport is a major transportation hub with its own commissioned police force. BNA's Department of Public Safety patrols the terminal and airport property and works with local, state, and federal law-enforcement partners.
An airport arrest can interrupt a flight, separate a traveler from luggage or companions, and create a Davidson County criminal case that remains pending after the traveler returns home.
Who Handles Police Matters at BNA?
BNA's Department of Public Safety includes state-certified commissioned police officers. The airport's Criminal Investigations Division investigates offenses involving airport property and criminal activity in which the airport is allegedly used to facilitate an offense.
Depending on the allegation, airport police may also coordinate with agencies such as the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department, TSA, DEA, DHS, FBI, or other authorities.
What Charges Can Arise at the Nashville Airport?
- Firearm or weapons allegations at a security checkpoint
- Drug possession or trafficking allegations
- Public intoxication or disorderly conduct
- Assault
- Theft or property offenses
- Outstanding warrants discovered during police contact
- Other state or federal offenses
The exact agency and court process depend on what allegedly occurred.
What Happens After an Airport Arrest?
If a state criminal charge is brought in Davidson County, the defendant can enter the same local booking, bond, and court system that applies to other Nashville arrests. The defendant should identify the exact charge, custody status, bond, and next court date.
An out-of-state traveler may be released and return home before the case is resolved. That does not end the Nashville case.
What Evidence Exists at an Airport?
BNA operates an extensive security environment. Its Airport Communications Center describes video-management systems involving more than 500 cameras, in addition to other airport security systems.
Potential evidence can include airport surveillance, police body-camera footage, TSA records, airline or boarding information, baggage records, receipts, witness statements, and the physical item involved in the investigation.
What If I Miss My Flight?
The criminal case takes priority over travel plans once someone is detained or arrested. A lawyer cannot force an airline to hold a flight or guarantee immediate release.
Family members should focus first on locating the defendant, identifying the charge, and determining bond and release status. Airline rebooking and baggage issues can then be addressed separately.
What If I Live Outside Tennessee?
Airport defendants are frequently travelers. Before returning home after release, confirm the court date and whether any bond condition restricts travel. Ask counsel whether future personal appearances are required.
Missing a required Davidson County appearance can create a warrant and make a relatively manageable case significantly more complicated.
Talk With a Nashville Airport Arrest Lawyer
Kevin Kennedy is a former Davidson County prosecutor who now represents people accused of crimes in Nashville and throughout Middle Tennessee. If you were arrested at BNA, Kevin Kennedy Law Firm can review the charge, evidence, bond, and Davidson County court process.
Call Kevin Kennedy Law Firm at (615) 205-7311 to discuss the case.