Woman Fined $2K for Jaguar Skin Possession

A woman has been fined after admitting she had jaguar skin in her possession.

In August 2025, Lidear Lino was charged under Belize’s Forests Act for having wildlife parts without permission. The case ended this week in the Court of Belize, where she pleaded guilty and was ordered to pay a fine of BZ$2,000.

The Belize Forest Department thanked those who assisted in the case and reminded the public that it is illegal to possess wildlife or wildlife parts, including teeth, skins, feathers, nests, eggs, or any derivatives. Offenders can face penalties of up to BZ$10,000.

In a statement, the Forest Department said, “No permits authorise individuals to retain such items under any circumstances.”

The Forest Department ended the statement by urging Belizeans to “play an active role in protecting wildlife and to discourage illegal trade.”