Chol Magwit, Interference with Security Screening Personnel, Nebraska 2023

A shocking incident unfolded at Eppley Airfield in Omaha, Nebraska, leaving one airport officer injured and a 21-year-old man behind bars. Chol Magwit, a resident of Omaha, was sentenced to 15 months’ imprisonment for interference with security screening personnel.

According to court documents, Magwit forcibly opened two separate doors to restricted areas, making his way onto the tarmac on April 7, 2023. Despite being tackled and refusing commands to stop his movement, Magwit continued towards the active operating area before being apprehended.

During his arrest, Magwit assaulted an airport officer who had security duties within the airport. The assault was severe enough to require medical treatment, as Magwit bit the officer’s hand, penetrating the skin.

Magwit’s actions interfered with the performance of the airport officer’s duties while undergoing treatment for his injuries. The severity of the assault and the disruption it caused to airfield operations have raised concerns about airport security.

The investigation into Magwit’s actions was a collaborative effort between the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Omaha Police Department, and the Omaha Airport Authority Airport Police.

Magwit, 21, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced on November 15, 2023, in federal court in Omaha. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher handed down the 15-month sentence, which will be served without the possibility of parole. Following his release from prison, Magwit will be required to complete a 3-year term of supervised release.

The sentencing of Chol Magwit serves as a reminder of the importance of airport security and the severe consequences of violent behavior. The safety of airfield personnel and passengers must be prioritized, and incidents like this one will be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

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