CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS — A 46-year-old woman from Aransas Pass has pleaded guilty to smuggling rare Dong Tao chickens into the United States from Vietnam and Cambodia.
A press release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, which announced the plea on Thursday, revealed Jennifer Mayo's actions.
In August 2023, Mayo illegally imported 60 Dong Tao chicken eggs, which she attempted to hatch at home. Although she initially claimed that all the chicks had died, further inspections by officials discovered several live chickens roaming her property.
Unfortunately, due to health concerns, those chickens had to be euthanized.
Dong Tao chickens, often called Dragon chickens, are a rare breed native to Southeast Asia. They are especially known for their long, thick legs and are highly sought after, making them a costly commodity. However, importing poultry from regions affected by avian influenza or Newcastle disease, such as Vietnam and Cambodia, is illegal unless specific conditions are met.
Dong Tao chickens are known for their long, thick legs, and are highly sought after
When she is sentenced on January 23, 2025, Mayo faces a potential sentence of up to 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000. She has been allowed to remain on bond until that date.
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