Warning This Web page has been archived on the Web.

Archived Content

Information identified as archived on the Web is for reference, research or recordkeeping purposes. It has not been altered or updated after the date of archiving. Web pages that are archived on the Web are not subject to the Government of Canada Web Standards. As per the Communications Policy of the Government of Canada, you can request alternate formats on the Contact Us page.

Illegal importation of reptiles results in $1500 in fines

WINNIPEG, Man. -- July 27, 2010 -- A Winnipeg traveller pleaded guilty yesterday to charges of illegally importing two live iguanas from Mexico into Canada.

On July 26, 2010, Emlyn Henry of Winnipeg, Manitoba was sentenced to fines of $750.00 for one violation of the Wild Animal and Plant Protection and Regulation of International and Interprovincial Trade Act (WAPPRIITA). Mr. Henry was also sentenced for one violation of the Customs Act (smuggling)and fined an additional $750.00.

Charges were investigated and laid jointly by Environment Canada and the Canada Border Services Agency on March 26, 2009 after the traveller was discovered to be in possession of the reptiles at Winnipeg’s James Richardson Airport.

The iguanas seized during this enforcement action have since been placed at the Assiniboine Park Zoo in Winnipeg.

Further information on WAPPRIITA may be found at http://www.cites.ec.gc.ca/.