CBP queries protect U.S. ag interests

Woman finds apple fine unfair, but produce is serious business

A woman from Colorado is facing a $500 fine, thanks to an apple in her carry-on bag.

Crystal Tadlock was on an international flight returning to the U.S. from Paris, when a flight attendant offered her an apple. Tadlock put the apple in her carry-on bag to save it for later, and when she landed, her bag was randomly searched by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Associated Press reports.

When the agent found the apple, he fined her $500, because Tadlock had not declared the apple on her Customs declaration form.

Tadlock was required to fill out the form on the flight, which specifically asks whether or not the traveler is bringing back any fruits, vegetables, seeds, food or meats.

CBP asks such questions because agriculture products “may carry plant pests and foreign animal diseases,” their website notes, which in turn are a threat to U.S. crops and livestock. Once the items are declared, agents can then inspect them, or travelers can throw them away at the port of entry.

But if travelers don’t declare them, the CBP website notes, “undeclared prohibited agriculture items will be confiscated and can result in the issuance of a civil penalty to the traveler for failure to declare the prohibited item.”

Tadlock isn’t thrilled about the fine, and plans to fight it in court, KDVR-TV in Denver reports. However, she may have gotten off easy — CBP’s website says fines can be up to $10,000.

CBP’s rules may seem strict, but in reality, agents are working to protect the agriculture industry in the U.S. Imagine the ripple effects in Yuma County if a pest made it across the border and into our fields. That could be devastating, impacting both the economy and the food supply.

While those Customs forms might seem annoying or like busywork, they serve a purpose, and help Customs do their part to protect our agricultural industry.

It’s unfortunate that Tadlock had this experience, but hopefully it serves as a reminder for other travelers on why it’s important to declare items before entering the country.

What do you think, readers? Was CBP right in fining Tadlock, or should the agent have been more lenient? Let us know. Share your thoughts online at www. YumaSun.com, or send in a Letter to the Editor at letters@yumasun.com.