Increase of ‘cat eyes’ weapons being found in Upstate NY airports

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — There has been an increase in the number of “cat eyes” being carried to checkpoints in Upstate New York airports.

“Cat eyes” are similar to brass knuckles, but they are shaped like a cat — the user would place their fingers through the holes, or “eyes,” and the pointed “ears” become dangerous weapons.

According to the TSA, the cat eyes they have discovered are either made of metal or hard plastic — many of which are attached to key chains.

The TSA is asking people not to bring these weapons to the airport because they would have to search their bags to find the weapon. This process can cause the security line to slow down.

Bart R. Johnson is the TSA’s Federal Security Director for 13 airports in Upstate New York. He says TSA officers come across these items daily.

“Our officers are diligent in their duties and are good at spotting these weapons using the technologies at our checkpoints,” said Johnson. “I commend them for their continued vigilance and ask travelers to be equally diligent themselves and leave these items at home when packing for a flight.”

If you are caught with this weapon, you are asked to either put it back in your car, put it in a checked bag, or let the TSA dispose of it.

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