Mark West, president of the Chattanooga Tea Party.The president of the Chattanooga Tea Party was issued a citation after he brought his loaded pistol through security at the Chattanooga Airport, according to the Chattanooga Airport Police.
Mark West, 53, of Ooltewah, told authorities he forgot the Smith and Wesson Model 6372 was inside his carry-on bag on Sunday, according the affidavit.
West, who has a permit to carry the weapon, faces a charge of unlawful carrying or possession of a weapon.
No bond was set because a citation is similar to a traffic ticket and doesn't require an arrest, but does require the person to appear before a judge.
Attempts to reach West on Wednesday were unsuccessful.
His court date is scheduled for July 9 in Hamilton County General Sessions Court.