A Russian national who attempted to smuggle 800kg of sturgeon caviar to the US has been sentenced to 27 months in prison.
 
The contraband caviar seized by customs officials in July last year is the largest batch ever confiscated in the US, according to the US federal service for fish resources and nature protection. Grigory Udovenko, 39, had placed the goods in a cargo marked as dried fish.
 
Udovenko admitted his guilt at the New York court hearings that took place at the end of March this year. Because of this, the judge revealed on Friday that his sentence would be reduced from the five years prescribed by law to just 27 months.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more


Udovenko is president of the MNA Atlantic company, which is based in Moscow, St. Petersburg and New York.


The batch of caviar is estimated by experts to be worth US$2.5m.

Just Food Excellence Awards - Have you nominated?

Nominations are now open for the prestigious Just Food Excellence Awards - one of the industry's most recognised programmes celebrating innovation, leadership, and impact. This is your chance to showcase your achievements, highlight industry advancements, and gain global recognition. Don't miss the opportunity to be honoured among the best - submit your nomination today!

Nominate Now