The Transportation Security Administration has launched an internal investigation into an "offensive display" that was found inside a workstation at Miami International Airport.
According to CNN, the probe stems from a July 21 incident in which three TSA agents came across a couple of stuffed gorillas hanging from a noose in a non-public area of the airport. Sources say the three TSA officers informed their manager about discovery; however, the manager allegedly "tried to downplay the noose and gorilla display, saying it wasn't racist, it was just a joke."
An unidentified TSA employee with knowledge of the situation told CNN the stuffed animals and noose were hanging from a "pole right in the center of the TSA workstation located underneath the airport where passengers' checked luggage is screened before being placed on aircraft."
More than a week after the initial report, the TSA released a statement confirming their investigation into the incident. The agency also announced two of its officers were placed on administrative leave while the probe continues.
"The display was immediately removed and an investigation was launched into who was responsible for the unacceptable behavior," the statement read. "TSA does not tolerate racist or offensive behavior and those found responsible will be held accountable for their actions."
Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Giménez responded to investigation in a tweet Tuesday, stating that although TSA officers are not employed by Miami-Dade, "#OurCounty has zero tolerance for racism."
