Last Oct 21st I travelled from Paris to Santiago de Chile via Atlanta. The authorities opened my suitcase and took my Spanish ham. Is that permited even if I wasn't staying in the U.S.? Are they able to open luggage without the presence of th

Yes you cant bring in meat, veggies, fruits or cheese. Doesnt natter if your not staying .

Meats and seeds are usually subject to confiscation - the TSA can open your bag and will leave a note inside indicating your bag was searched

Regardless of whether you are staying in.the US. TSA does random checks on suitcases, and yes they are authorised to open suitcases. At scanning of suitcases your bag was chosen

The Government does what it wants. You need a lawyer to question the Government