The feds arrested Michael Williams, 39,, a former Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officer on charges that he tried to smuggle methamphetamine through Los Angeles International Airport in exchange for a total of $8,000 in cash.  In 2020, authorities conducted undercover operations involving Williams, whom they suspected of helping smuggle narcotics past security checkpoints at LAX.  During the operations, Williams allegedly met with a drug source to exchange methamphetamine in the days prior leading up to his shift at LAX.  As a TSA employee with unscreened access to LAX, Williams agreed to deliver the “methamphetamine” in a backpack to the drug source's accomplice in the men's restroom on the secure side of the airport terminal.   After taking what he believed was real narcotics, Williams allegedly transported an unscreened package containing the fake methamphetamine beyond the TSA screening area and delivered the package to another individual. This individual, whom Williams did not know was a federal agent, on both occasions exchanged $4,000 in cash in the stalls of the men's restroom in the airport's secure area.  LAX's security cameras showed Williams exiting the restroom while wearing his TSA uniform en route to begin his shift screening passengers and luggage.  

     A complaint contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.