Retail Value of Cloned Sheep Offspring Up to $550,000
An 80-year-old Montana rancher, Arthur “Jack” Schubarth, faced charges for illegally selling offspring from cloned sheep across state lines. The hybrid offspring, a mix of Marco Polo argali sheep and other bighorn sheep, were sold to game farms, likely for hunting purposes.
Legal Troubles and Sentencing
Schubarth pleaded guilty to felony charges and awaits sentencing in July, with a potential prison term of up to five years and fines of $250,000 per count. The illegal scheme involved transporting sheep worth tens of thousands of dollars and forging official documents.
Cloning and Wildlife Trade Laws
The case involved the cloning of sheep using illegally imported parts, a process not regulated in the US. Despite the controversy surrounding cloning, Schubarth’s legal violations stemmed from wildlife trafficking and violating the Lacey Act, which prohibits the trade of illegally obtained wildlife.
Concerns and Future Implications
Experts raised concerns about the potential impacts of the cloned sheep on ecosystems and biosecurity. While the genetic aspects are not immediately worrying, the unauthorized movement of genetic material poses risks to agriculture and ecosystems.
Implications of Illegal Wildlife Trade
The case highlights the dangers of illegal wildlife trade and the potential misuse of cloning technology. As authorities continue to monitor such activities, the need for stricter regulations and biosecurity measures becomes increasingly apparent.