Related Federal Cases
- Letitia James, Revocation of Temporary Protected Status, New York, … · Delaware
- Letitia James, Protected Democracy from Federal Election Seizure, N… · Delaware
- Alejo-Medrano Faces Smuggling Charges · New Hampshire
- Springfield Narcotics Kingpin Pleads Guilty to Gun Smuggling and Money Laundering · New Hampshire
- Burlington Conspirators Face Long Sentences · Washington
Defendant Hailed for Elaborate Turtle Smuggling Scheme
Burlington, VT – Wan Yee Ng, a 41-year-old resident of Hong Kong, has been charged with attempting to smuggle 29 eastern box turtles from the United States to Canada, a protected wildlife species.
According to a federal grand jury indictment, Ng attempted to export merchandise contrary to law. Her arraignment has not yet been scheduled.
Ng was intercepted by the U.S. Border Patrol at the Beecher Falls Station in Canaan, VT, after agents observed her preparing an inflatable kayak near the water’s edge. A duffle bag containing the turtles was found in the kayak, with each turtle individually wrapped in socks to protect their shells.
The eastern box turtle is a subspecies of the common box turtle and is native to forested regions of the eastern United States. Turtles with colorful markings are prized in the domestic and foreign pet trade market, particularly in China and Hong Kong.
Ng’s alleged smuggling attempt is punishable by up to 10 years in prison if convicted. The case highlights the ongoing threat of wildlife trafficking and the importance of international cooperation in combating this crime.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office commended the investigatory efforts of the U.S. Border Patrol, Homeland Security Investigations, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for their seamless cooperation with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
Ng is represented by Mark Kaplan, Esq. and faces an uncertain future, with her innocence presumed until proven guilty in a court of law.
Key Facts
- State: Vermont
- Category: Wildlife Trafficking
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
ðŸâ€Â’ Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
US NewsUS NewsUS NewsUS News