A Cuban national living legally in the United States is facing a federal smuggling charge after U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers allegedly found 10 live birds strapped to his body at Miami International Airport.
Alberto Hernandez Castillo arrived in Miami on Oct. 4 aboard a flight from Havana and was sent to secondary inspection, according to a federal complaint obtained by Fox News Digital. On his customs declaration, Castillo indicated he was not bringing any animals or wildlife into the country, court documents state.
Officers first checked a carry-on bag and a fanny pack and found nothing. But during routine questioning about his trip, they noticed what the complaint describes as an ‘unexplained bulge’ around his waist and pelvic area. Officers said Castillo ‘appeared nervous,’ which led them to conduct a pat-down.
That search allegedly turned up six clear cylindrical containers holding live birds, wrapped in tape and tucked into black pockets sewn into his underwear. In total, officers recovered 10 birds, preliminarily identified as eight yellow-faced grassquits and two blue grosbeaks, according to court documents. Photos in the complaint show the containers after removal and how they were allegedly hidden beneath his clothing.
When officers asked about the birds, Castillo reportedly said they were for his ‘personal use.’ He later invoked his right to remain silent, the complaint states.
A records check found no indication that Castillo had filed the paperwork required to legally import wildlife into the United States. The complaint states there is no evidence, ‘based on the records available at the time of inspection,’ that he ‘submitted the documentation required for the lawful importation of wildlife.’
Castillo has been charged with smuggling goods into the United States. Court records recommend a $25,000 personal surety bond. He is due back in court on Oct. 26.
Fox News Digital reached out to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida for additional details.
Add comment