Smuggling of illegal Chinese pesticides prevalent in CNMI

The smuggling of illegal Chinese pesticides to the CNMI via airplanes is a prevalent problem on the islands, according to assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk W. Schuler, who said this is particularly common among Chinese farmers here.

Schuler highlighted this issue in his recommendation to impose a two-year probation sentence on Bo Hu Li, who pleaded guilty to a count of knowingly distributing an unregistered pesticide.

A federal grand jury indicted Li on two counts of alleged importation of undeclared pesticides from China.

Li's sentencing is on Feb. 22, 2011.

Schuler said the use of unregistered pesticides in the CNMI is a serious problem that must be addressed. “The public must know that pesticides are regulated, and that offenders will be punished,” he added.

Schuler said prosecuting pesticide violations to conviction, even if misdemeanors, will serve to publicize this illegal activity and deter wrongdoing.

Schuler said that Li shipped unregistered pesticides from China to Saipan out of a desire to grow better crops and make more money in the farming business.

"As an alien, defendant understands that his status in the CNMI is predicated in part on his good behavior and that any future violations, if not the instant violation, will likely subject him to removal,” he pointed out.

Although the application of unregistered pesticides creates a dangerous situation for consumers, Schuler said there are no identified victims in this case, so there is no need to provide restitution.

Schuler said that Li, a poor Chinese who lacks adequate education, arrived on Saipan in 1995 as a farmer. Li lives with his wife and many children on the island. He has two brothers living here.