Crime & Safety
Accused Worcester Salamander Smuggler Indicted: Feds
Nathan Boss, 27, illegally imported reptiles from across Asia, prosecutors say. Many of them died during shipping.
WORCESTER, MA — A 27-year-old Worcester man accused of illegally importing reptiles was indicted this week on two counts of smuggling wildlife, and one count of lying to a federal agent. Nathan Boss had dozens of turtles, newts, and salamanders shipped to his home, which may have been sold online, court documents say.
Federal officials had been investigating Boss' illegal wildlife shipments for years. He was charged in September after U.S. Postal Service agents intercepted a shipment of Chinese black-breasted leaf turtles heading to Boss' home, charging documents say.
The package of turtles was address to a pseudonym, "Shelton Boss."
READ MORE: 22 Dead Newts: MA Man Accused Of Smuggling Chinese Animals
Boss violated the Convention for Trade in Endangered Species and Wild Fauna, federal attorneys say. The charges Boss is facing carry a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a fine up to $250,000.
