Man Convicted for Trafficking in Illegally Imported Whale Teeth, Narwhal Tusks
The Justice Department announced that a Massachusetts man was convicted on November 19, 2010 of seven felonies related to the illegal importation and illegal trafficking of sperm whale teeth and narwhal tusks.
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Found Guilty of Smuggling Conspiracy, Lacey Act Violations
David Place of Nantucket, MA was found guilty on seven felony counts of conspiracy, Lacey Act, and smuggling violations for buying and illegally importing sperm whale teeth and narwhal tusks into the U.S., as well as selling the teeth after their illegal importation.
Imported Teeth & Tusks from CITES Species Without Permits, Declaring to CBP
The evidence showed that from 2001 to 2006, Place knowingly purchased and imported sperm whale teeth and narwhal tusks into the U.S. in violation of federal law. Sperm whales are classified as "endangered" under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), and are listed on Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Justice states that it is illegal to import parts of sperm whale teeth into the U.S. without the requisite permits/certifications, and without declaring the merchandise at the time of importation to U.S. Customs and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Conspired with Persons in Ukraine to Illegally Import and Sell Whale Teeth
Place also conspired with persons located in Ukraine to illegally import the protected whale teeth for resale in the U.S. Place owns Manor House Antiques Cooperative in Nantucket. Sperm whale teeth are commonly used for scrimshaw and can fetch large sums of money from collectors and tourists. Scrimshaw, as defined by the ESA, is any art form which involves the substantial etching or engraving of designs upon, or the substantial carving of figures, patterns, or designs from, any bone or tooth of any whale, dolphin or porpoise.
Faces 20 Years Prison and $250,000 Fines, Etc.
Place faces up to 20 years in prison as well as fines of up to $250,000 on smuggling charges. He also faces up to five years on each of five counts of Lacey Act violations and related conspiracy charges.