TSA Agent Accuses Black Woman of Smuggling — Then Discovers She Runs Customs...
Chapter 16
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The next morning, his alarm blared at 5:00 a.m. He got up, barely functioning on a few hours of restless sleep, and prepared for another day at the airport.When he arrived, he found a subdued atmosphere among the TSA staff. Many had heard about Harriet Brown's presence and the tense meeting. There was a rumor that Ms. Brown would be addressing staff via a video conference later in the week. Morale was at an all-time low as people worried about repercussions.To Grant's surprise, he was called into Leighton's office again first thing in the morning. Cain was already there, looking furious. Leighton sat behind her desk, expression grim."We've received some immediate directives from TSA headquarters," Leighton announced. "In response to what happened with Ms. Brown, the agency wants to set an example. There will be a suspension for Agent Cain pending further investigation."Cain jumped up, his voice shaking. "A suspension? Are you kidding me? I was following procedure! This is ridiculous!"Leighton spread her hands in a placating gesture. "Whether or not you intended it, your behavior escalated a situation unnecessarily and put the agency in a terrible position. We have statements from multiple witnesses that you treated Ms. Brown in a manner inconsistent with standard protocol."Cain's face turned red. "So, I'm the sacrificial lamb?"Leighton frowned, her eyes flicking to Grant. "At this time, Agent Fowler, you're not facing suspension. However, you will be subjected to a formal review. You'll have to meet with the Office of Inspection and the Civil Rights Division. Don't make any public comments or talk to the press."Grant's stomach churned. He felt horrible for Cain, even if Cain had indeed crossed the line. The man had a family, mortgage payments, and years in the agency; now he risked losing it all. But Cain's scowl suggested he blamed everyone else for his downfall. Grant wondered if Cain would point fingers at him during the review.As Cain stormed out of the office, Grant caught Leighton's eye. "I never wanted this to happen," he murmured.Leighton sighed. "I know, but the wheels are in motion. Just comply with the review. If you acted without malice, they'll see that."Grant nodded numbly. Karma, it seemed, had landed a heavy blow, especially on Cain. A swirl of conflicting emotions gripped Grant: relief that he wasn't suspended, guilt for Cain's predicament, dread over the impending review, and above all, the grim knowledge that Harriet Brown, through her position, was making sure accountability was enforced.