NEWARK, N.J. – A Pennsylvania man was caught attempting to smuggle a live turtle through security at Newark Liberty International Airport last Friday. The man’s unusual attempt was uncovered when a body scan triggered an alarm in the area of his groin, leading to the discovery of the hidden animal.
According to a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) statement released on Tuesday, the man was undergoing routine screening when the alarm went off. The TSA officer then performed a pat-down to investigate the source of the alarm.
The Turtle Hidden in Pants
Upon inspection, the TSA officer discovered that the man was concealing something in the area of his groin. When questioned about the item, the man, a resident of East Stroudsburg, Pa., reached down his pants and pulled out a live turtle wrapped in a small blue towel.
The turtle was identified as a red-ear slider, a common type of pet turtle in the United States. The turtle measured about five inches in length, and the man confirmed it was his pet.
Port Authority Police Response
After the discovery, Port Authority Police took possession of the turtle and began questioning the man. The police also indicated that they would contact both the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and local animal control officials for further investigation.
Despite his attempt to sneak the turtle onto the plane, the man missed his flight and was escorted out of the airport by law enforcement.
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TSA’s Response to the Incident
Thomas Carter, TSA’s Federal Security Director for New Jersey, commented on the incident, stating that this was the first time he had encountered someone trying to conceal a live animal in their pants during airport security checks.
Carter praised the TSA officer who conducted the pat-down, commending them for handling the situation with professionalism. He added, “We have seen travelers try to conceal knives and other weapons on their person, in their shoes, and in their luggage, but this is the first time we have come across someone concealing a live animal down the front of their pants.”
Fortunately, it appears the turtle was not harmed during the ordeal. The incident serves as a reminder of the unexpected items people try to smuggle through airport security.
