LAREDO, Texas – It was a bit snaky being a border protection officer lately.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection issued a release on Tuesday that officers conducting outbound operations intercepted 39 live pythons hidden within a semi truck.
“The interception of live pythons at the World Trade Bridge highlights the vigilance and dedication of our CBP officers in enforcing laws that protect both our borders and our environment,” said Port Director Alberto Flores, Laredo Port of Entry. “CBP remains committed to preventing the illegal importation and exportation of wildlife and ensuring compliance with all federal regulations.”
The incident occurred on March 5 at the World Trade Bridge after CBP officers encountered a 2021 Peterbilt tractor-trailer traveling to Mexico. CBP says officers selected the driver and big rig for inspection. During that inspection, CBP officers discovered a total of 39 pythons hidden inside the tractor. The animals were found after the driver gave a negative declaration for prohibited goods.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service agents were contacted and took custody of the animals. Due to their condition, the pythons were transported to a controlled environment. Penalties totaling $34,824 for export violations were issued in connection with this incident.
CBP seized the tractor and trailer. The case remains under investigation by Fish and Wildlife Service and Homeland Security Investigations.
Bruce Guthrie is an award-winning journalist who has lived in three states including Arkansas, Missouri and Georgia. During his nearly 20-year career, Bruce has served as managing editor and sports editor for numerous publications. He and his wife, Dana, who is also a journalist, are based in Carrollton, Georgia.
