NEED TO KNOW
Alberto Hernandez Castillo was caught allegedly smuggling birds in his pants after landing in Miami from Cuba
U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers found the birds in taped plastic tubes hidden inside black pockets sewn into his underwear
Hernandez Castillo was charged with smuggling goods, released on a $25,000 bond, and is due in court Oct. 26
A man was allegedly found to be smuggling live birds in his underwear at Miami International Airport after authorities observed an “unexplained bulge” on him.
Alberto Hernandez Castillo, a native of Cuba and legal permanent resident of the United States, arrived in Miami from Cuba on Sunday, Oct. 4, per a criminal complaint obtained by PEOPLE.
Upon arrival, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer selected him for secondary inspection and gave him a binding declaration to confirm which items he was bringing into the U.S. Hernandez Castillo listed one carry-on bag and one fanny pack, per the complaint.
He also filled out a Customs Entry Declaration form in which he selected “no” to all declaration questions, such as whether he was bringing any animals or wildlife into the country, according to the complaint. Hernandez Castillo was asked “routine travel questions” and told the officer he had gone to Cuba to visit family.
photo of man
Credit: United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida
CBP officers then noticed an “unexplained bulge” on the front of his pelvis/waist area and noted in the criminal complaint that he “appeared nervous.”
After being taken to a secure inspection area, a pat-down revealed that Hernandez Castillo was “concealing six cylindrical clear plastic containers, each wrapped in tape and some with black mesh material affixed near the openings,” the complaint alleges.
The tubes were hidden in black pockets sewn into underwear, with each tube containing live birds.
Hernandez Castillo was found transporting 10 live birds—eight yellow-faced Grassquits and two Blue Grosbeaks.
The two species are common in illegal bird trade, according to WPLG Local 10.
Hernandez Castillo did not submit the documentation required for the lawful importation of wildlife, the complaint claims.
photo of birds
Credit: United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida
Hernandez Castillo alleged the birds were for his “personal use” before he invoked his right to remain silent. He was charged with smuggling goods.
According to online records reviewed by PEOPLE, he appeared in Miami federal court and was released on a $25,000 personal surety bond.
His arraignment is set for Oct. 26.
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PEOPLE has reached out to his public defender for comment.
Read the original article on People