Okay, this topic was discussed some time ago by staff, it was decided that with the current attitude and legal climate concerning snakeheads and asian aros MFK could not condone or encourage the illegal transfer of these fish or indeed any other species in areas that are banned.
The current policy is to close the thread. We also tend to point out possible consequenses.
Most people who get busted over things like this are caught because they are involved in cross border smuggling, The FW people use word filters to alert a small staff to suspect forum traffic, if it seems to warrant it or edges on a larger investication they watch closer or even set up a sting. Importers and dealers are especially vulnerable.
It was several years ago that the individual in San Francisco got busted with piranha, here is the story of how it happened as best as I know. He had been popped before for RBPs and a FW stingray and recieved a small fine and lost the fish, that was due to an estranged girlfriend calling the Ca. F+W. Then he got a few more RPBs from someone in Sacramento who was also involved in importing asian aros. That person got bustedin a sting and gave up his customer lists to the feds. They turned over the info they did not need to the state. Both the state and city served a warrant and ended up confiscting tanks, equipment, and all the fish in the house, even the legal ones. In court the owner was fined several thouisand dollars but part of the fine was deferred. He was banned from owning a fish tank of any kind for 2 years as well. Violation of that order would result in reinstatement of the fines and contempt of court charges. He was busted almost accidently but nonetheless he was busted.
Any way here it is again...,
MFK does not, and cannot, support, condone, or encourage, the trafficking in species that are illegal. Any thread found to be offering such sales will be closed.
