On October 11, Wan Yee Ng of Hong Kong pleaded guilty in Vermont federal court to a charge of attempting to illegally smuggle 29 protected Eastern box turtles into Canada. From there, the turtles were destined for Hong Kong, where a single live turtle can fetch upwards of $2,000 (live turtles are considered a delicacy in some Asian countries). The box turtles were originally captured in New Jersey in the spring.
Ng was arrested in Canaan, Vermont, on June 26 as she was attempting to paddle an inflatable kayak across Lake Wallace to the Canadian side of the lake, where an apparent accomplice thought to be her husband was waiting. The turtles were apparently wrapped in socks and stuffed in a duffel bag.
If found guilty, Ng could face up to 10 years in prison, three years’ probation, a fine of up to $250,000, and a $100 special assessment, according to court records.
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