Man Charged With 14 Felonies After TSA Finds Fake IDs at Airport

A Schenectady man is facing 14 felony charges after Transportation Security Administration officers discovered multiple forged identification documents during a routine airport security screening, according to local law enforcement.

The Albany County Sheriff’s Office announced that deputies were alerted by the Transportation Security Administration on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, after a passenger attempted to pass through an airport checkpoint with suspected fraudulent documents in his possession.

Authorities identified the individual as 34-year-old Quayshaun Graham of Schenectady, New York. TSA officers flagged the matter during screening and contacted sheriff’s deputies for further investigation.

According to officials, a search of Graham’s carry-on luggage uncovered a large cache of forged identification documents. Deputies reported finding five fraudulent driver’s licenses allegedly issued by different U.S. states, six counterfeit Social Security cards, and three forged Federal Aviation Administration pilot certificates. Investigators said the variety and quantity of documents raised immediate concerns about potential identity fraud and misuse.

Following the discovery, Graham was taken into custody and charged with 14 counts of Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument in the Second Degree. Under New York law, each count is classified as a Class D felony, reflecting the seriousness of possessing and attempting to use falsified official documents.

Graham was later arraigned in Colonie Court, where he was released under the supervision of probation pending further legal proceedings. No additional details were released regarding whether the forged documents were actively used for travel or other purposes, and investigators have not disclosed a motive.

Albany County Sheriff Craig D. Apple Sr. emphasized that airport security checkpoints remain a critical line of defense against identity fraud and other criminal activity. Law enforcement officials say cooperation between TSA officers and local authorities is essential in identifying suspicious activity before it escalates into more serious threats.

Cases involving forged identification documents are taken particularly seriously because of the potential risks to public safety, aviation security, and financial systems. False driver’s licenses, Social Security cards, and pilot credentials can be used to bypass safeguards, access restricted areas, or commit further crimes under assumed identities.

As with all criminal cases, authorities stressed that the charges against Graham are allegations. He is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. The investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges could be filed if further evidence emerges.

The incident serves as a reminder that airport security screenings are designed not only to detect prohibited items, but also to identify fraudulent documents that could pose broader security and safety concerns.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, cbs6albany.com