Man Charged After 10 Live Birds Found Hidden in Underwear at Miami Airport
US Customs and Border Protection officers discovered the birds during a secondary inspection of a passenger arriving from Havana.
A traveler arriving at Miami International Airport from Havana, Cuba, has been charged with smuggling after U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers discovered 10 live birds concealed within his underwear. The incident occurred on October 4.
Alberto Hernandez Castillo, a Cuban native and legal permanent resident of the United States, was selected for a secondary inspection after arriving on a flight. According to a federal complaint, officers noted an "unexplained bulge" around his waist and pelvic area. Castillo had signed a customs declaration form indicating he was not bringing animals or wildlife into the country.
Initial searches of Castillo's carry-on bag and fanny pack yielded no contraband. However, during a pat-down prompted by his apparent nervousness and the visible bulge, officers discovered six clear cylindrical containers. These containers, wrapped in tape and secured within black pockets sewn into his underwear, held the live birds.
Authorities identified the birds as eight yellow-faced grassquits and two blue grosbeaks. When questioned, Castillo reportedly stated the birds were for his "personal use." He later invoked his right to remain silent.
An investigation revealed that Castillo had not filed the necessary documentation for the legal importation of wildlife. He was subsequently charged with smuggling goods into the United States. Court records recommend a $25,000 personal surety bond for Castillo.
Castillo is scheduled to appear in court again on October 26. Information was sought from the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida for further details.