Elderly Man Caught at MIA with 16 Birds Sewn Into His Pants

Alberto Diaz Gonzalez wasn't just happy to see customs officials. Those actually were 16 birds in his pants.Gonzalez, who is 76 years old, was caught at Miami International Airport trying to smuggle in Cuban bullfinches in his pants after a trip to Havana...

By Kyle Munzenrieder

December 7, 2012

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Alberto Diaz Gonzalez wasn't just happy to see customs officials. Those actually were 16 birds in his pants.

Gonzalez, who is 76 years old, was caught at Miami International Airport trying to smuggle in Cuban bullfinches in his pants after a trip to Havana.

The incident occurred on October 20. Gonzalez did not declare any wildlife, and repeated the claim when asked verbally. Then he was patted down. Officials found that the 16 Cuban bullfinches (also known as Negritos de Cuba) had been sewn into the interior of his pants. He also was keeping a few in a plastic cylinder in his pockets.

Gonzalez then admitted that he planned to sell the birds in the U.S.

According to a press release from the United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Florida, Gonzalez has now pleaded guilty to the smuggling charges. He could face up to 20 years in prison, three years of probation and a $250,000 fine.

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