Retired Dallas Officer Fights to Save Daughter from Panama Prison Sentence

Paul Inman, a retired Dallas police officer with 28 years of experience as a gang-unit detective, is currently investigating a serious legal situation involving his daughter, Sabrina Underwood. Underwood, a 34-year-old mother of three from San Antonio, is facing a minimum 12-year prison sentence in Panama after a loaded gun was discovered in her checked luggage during a holiday trip. The incident has turned a family visit into a criminal case, raising significant concerns about airport security protocols.

Retired Dallas officer fights to keep daughter out of Panama prison after gun found in luggage

Underwood traveled to Panama to visit a family friend, but her trip took a drastic turn when authorities found a loaded handgun in her luggage. The firearm reportedly belonged to her husband, a military service member and gun enthusiast. Inman asserts that Underwood was unaware of the gun's presence, emphasizing that it was located on the outside of her bag rather than concealed within. He is working to convince Panamanian prosecutors that this was an accidental oversight rather than an intentional act of smuggling.

Retired Dallas officer fights to keep daughter out of Panama prison after gun found in luggage

After spending 23 days in a Panamanian prison, Underwood was moved to house arrest. Prosecutors have offered a plea deal that would still require her to serve the full 12 years if accepted. Inman expressed deep concern for his daughter's emotional well-being, stating, "If she does 12 years, that would be devastating for the family." He highlighted the impact on Underwood's three children, who would be adults by the time she is released.

Retired Dallas officer fights to keep daughter out of Panama prison after gun found in luggage

Inman has taken it upon himself to gather evidence and advocate for leniency, facing challenges in securing assistance from the federal government. He described his efforts as a "one-man mission" to help his daughter navigate the legal system in Panama. His determination stems from a desire to prevent what he views as a tragic mistake from costing his daughter her freedom.

Retired Dallas officer fights to keep daughter out of Panama prison after gun found in luggage

The case has also raised broader questions regarding airport security, particularly how the loaded gun was able to pass through screenings at airports in Nashville and Houston before being detected in Panama. This aspect of the situation has sparked discussions about the effectiveness of current security measures in preventing similar incidents.

Retired Dallas officer fights to keep daughter out of Panama prison after gun found in luggage

While Inman is focused on defending his daughter, there are concerns from legal experts about the implications of the case. Critics argue that the situation underscores potential gaps in both airport security and international legal processes, which can lead to severe consequences for individuals unaware of the laws in foreign countries.

Retired Dallas officer fights to keep daughter out of Panama prison after gun found in luggage

• "I thought that life was over, now I'm doing everything I can to defend this situation for my daughter." — Paul Inman, Retired Dallas Police Officer

Retired Dallas officer fights to keep daughter out of Panama prison after gun found in luggage

• "It's just a sad mistake, but it could cost her dearly, and that's what I'm fearful of." — Paul Inman, Retired Dallas Police Officer

Retired Dallas officer fights to keep daughter out of Panama prison after gun found in luggage

Inman continues to advocate for his daughter, hoping to find a resolution that will allow her to return to her family and avoid a lengthy prison sentence in Panama.

Retired Dallas officer fights to keep daughter out of Panama prison after gun found in luggage