What is this case about?

Phil Mocek (click photo for hi-res)

Phil Mocek (pronounced “MOE-seck” or “MOE-sick”) was arrested by Albuquerque police at a TSA checkpoint at the Albuquerque International Sunport on November 15, 2009. He had a valid ticket on Southwest Airlines (”You are now free to move about the country”), and was attempting to get to his flight. Like the “Freedom Riders” of the 1960s on interstate buses, Mr. Mocek sought to exercise his Federally and Constitutionally-guaranteed right to travel, but was arrested by local police for alleged violations of state and local laws and ordinances. Mr. Mocek was acquitted by a jury on all counts, and is pursuing a claim against the City of Albuquerque and the Albuquerque Aviation Police Department for violations of his civil rights.

This page about the case also has some excellent, well-researched information about TSA checkpoints, air travel rights, and the laws pertaining to them. If you fly, you should check it out.