Unlawful Importation of Snakes Results in Fine

March 23, 2010

ST. CATHARINES, Ont. -- Ryan Brennan of Unionville, Ontario, pleaded guilty to two violations of federal legislation for unlawfully importing four protected snakes into Canada. He was fined a total of $2,500.

In addition to the four animals being forfeited, the court also ordered that, for a period of three years, Mr.Brennan must notify Environment Canada at least one week prior to importing or exporting any and all reptiles internationally or interprovincially.   

The violation, under the Wild Animal and Plant Protection and Regulation of International and Interprovincial Trade Act; pertained to two grey-banded king snakes and two Appendix I Madagascar tree boas, listed by the Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).  Mr. Brennan entered Canada with four snakes at the Queenston-Lewiston International Bridge on June 24, 2009. The snakes were detected by Canada Border Services Agency officers.

Mr. Brennan was also convicted of one violation under the Customs Act, administered by the Canada Border Services Agency.