A 35-year-old Malaysian woman has pleaded guilty to four counts of attempting to export regulated native specimens today at the Perth Magistrates Court.
The woman was sentenced to a term of imprisonment of 12 months, with a non-parole period of four months, for attempting to export reptiles to Hong Kong.
Today's outcome is part of a broader investigation by the department's environmental compliance officers that has resulted in 129 native reptiles being stopped at the border.
The court noted the serious nature of the offences and the impact that these crimes have in endangering native species and the cruelty to the animals involved.
The sentencing sends a clear message to those who consider participating in wildlife crimes: the department works closely with a range of Australian and state Government law enforcement agencies to stop the trade and exploitation of Australia's unique wildlife.
If you have any information about trade in illegal wildlife or wildlife products, you can contact the department directly at [email protected].
