Man Caught Smuggling Live Turtle in Pants at Newark Airport
NEWARK, N.J. (AP) — A Pennsylvania man was caught attempting to smuggle a live turtle through security at Newark Liberty International Airport, authorities said.
According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), the unusual discovery was made Friday when the man triggered an alarm while passing through a body scanner. During a subsequent pat-down, officers identified a concealed object in the man’s groin area.
When questioned, the man — a resident of East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania — reached into his pants and produced a 5-inch (12 cm) long turtle, wrapped in a small blue towel. He identified it as a red-eared slider turtle, a common pet species.
The man’s identity has not been disclosed. He was escorted away from the checkpoint by Port Authority police, causing him to miss his flight. The turtle was confiscated, though authorities have not clarified whether it was his pet or why he chose to hide it in his clothing.
Thomas Carter, TSA’s Federal Security Director for New Jersey, expressed surprise over the bizarre incident:
“We have seen travelers try to conceal knives and other weapons on their person, in their shoes, and in their luggage. However, I believe this is the first time we have encountered someone hiding a live animal down the front of their pants.”
Thankfully, the turtle appeared unharmed, officials said.
The matter is still under investigation, and it remains unclear whether the man will face any charges or fines related to the incident.