Film producer arrested for smuggling frogs

[TexasStooge]

PERTH, Australia (AP) — An award-winning British film producer and conservationist appeared in an Australian court Tuesday charged with trying to smuggle hundreds of frogs and reptiles out of Australia in his luggage.

Michael Linley was arrested by customs officials at Perth International Airport in Western Australia state Monday, after more than 200 live reptiles and frogs were found in his suitcases, along with insects.

Linley appeared in Perth Magistrates Court charged with trying to smuggle the creatures, which included skinks, frogs and geckos.

Prosecutors said Linley told customs officers he knew his actions were illegal and was likely to plead guilty at his next court appearance later this month. It wasn't immediately clear what sentence he faces if convicted.

Defense lawyer Geoffrey Vickeridge told the court Linley was a well-known film producer who had won international awards for conservation.

Linley, whose credits include work for National Geographic, was released on bail on condition he surrender his passport and report to police three times a week.

Western Australia's Department of Conservation and Land Management (CALM) said the animals were discovered by X-ray at the airport, following a tip-off from a member of the public.

CALM officers are hoping to release the animals back into the wild later this week. Investigator Rick Dawson said the hundreds of animals were found in two suitcases. Some of the females were laying eggs, he said.

[coriolis]

How did the headline read? Here's my suggestions

Skink Stink

or

Linley's lizard laden luggage

or

Austrailan authorities arrest amphibian absconding artist