Court Hearing Details
, a researcher, appeared in federal court over allegations of smuggling frog embryos into the from , sparking a debate on what constitutes "biological materials".
The case centers around whether Petrova intended to declare the embryos at customs. She claims ignorance of the need to declare the items, while federal officials accuse her of planned deception.
Legal Proceedings and Consequences
After her arrest, Petrova was detained, had her visa canceled, and briefly held in an ICE facility, with a judge later ruling the actions unlawful. In May, she was charged with smuggling.
If convicted, Petrova faces up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The case continues with both sides preparing to submit briefs to the judge.