Security Screening Takes Unexpected Turn When Jail Staff Find Gun On Arrestee: Officials

CHICAGO — A man taken into custody on misdemeanor charges now faces felony counts as well after correctional staff found a loaded gun on his person as he entered Cook County Jail, authorities said.

Sheriff’s office staff recovered the firearm around 9:30 a.m. July 29 from 23-year-old Philip Robinson after it was detected during a routine intake screening, according to authorities.

The 9mm Taurus was loaded with 13 rounds, including one in the chamber, authorities said. The sheriff’s office shared an apparent screening image on social media that appeared to show the gun concealed in the area of Robinson’s lower torso and upper legs.

Robinson was brought into custody for misdemeanors but now faces additional felony weapons charges, according the sheriff's office.

“As a reminder, every person entering the Cook County Jail is screened and thoroughly searched,” the sheriff's office said in a social media post. “Attempts to bring weapons or other contraband into the facility will be detected and charges will be pursued.”