A South Carolina resident has admitted guilt to federal charges related to the illegal import and sale of sperm whale parts. The individual, Lauren H. DeLoach, a 69-year-old from St. Helena Island, S.C., entered a guilty plea on Thursday. The charges stem from violations of the Lacey Act and the Marine Mammal Protection Act.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of South Carolina confirmed the plea. Court documents and statements indicate that DeLoach imported sperm whale teeth and bones into South Carolina. This involved a minimum of 30 shipments originating from Australia, Latvia, Norway, and Ukraine. The illegal activity took place between July 2022 and September 2024.
Furthermore, DeLoach admitted to selling a significant number of these items. He sold at least 85 pieces through eBay, generating over $18,000 in revenue. To evade detection by U.S. customs officials, the items were falsely labeled as "plastic.
5 Comments
Marishka
Using false labels to evade customs? This reflects a total lack of respect for wildlife and the law.
Pupsik
This is a clear example of greed overriding ethics. DeLoach’s actions should remind us all of the need for stricter conservation laws.
Marishka
It's unbelievable that someone would resort to illegal activities just to make a quick buck off endangered species. This is unacceptable!
Pupsik
Sperm whale parts should never be for sale. Let's advocate for tougher laws against wildlife trafficking!
Marishka
Lauren H. DeLoach should face the maximum sentence possible. We need to send a strong message that crimes against nature will not be tolerated.