Release of Harvard Scientist Accused of Smuggling Frog Embryos

A Russian scientist at Harvard University, who faced allegations of smuggling frog embryos into the U.S., was released from federal custody after four months. Kseniia Petrova, 30, was arrested in February upon returning from a trip to France, where she reportedly obtained embryonic samples for research purposes. U.S. Customs and Border Protection questioned her at Boston Logan International Airport regarding the materials she carried.

“I want to thank everyone,” Petrova expressed to reporters outside a federal courthouse in Boston after her release. “So many people reached out and sent letters. It provided the support I needed to get through this.”

While answering questions, it was revealed that her visa had been canceled. Earlier statements from the Department of Homeland Security indicated that Petrova had allegedly lied to officials about transporting materials, suggesting she planned to sneak them through customs without proper declaration.

In an interview with The Associated Press back in April, Petrova claimed she wasn’t aware that the samples would need declaring, denying any intent to smuggle.

Petrova’s Legal Journey

Initially detained by an immigration officer in Vermont, Petrova was later transferred to a facility in Louisiana. In May, she faced smuggling charges in Massachusetts, and a federal judge scheduled a hearing regarding her release. The judge ultimately determined that the immigration officials’ actions were unlawful, stating that Petrova posed “no threat to anyone.” Despite this, she remained under the scrutiny of a former U.S. Secret Service agent because of ongoing smuggling charges.

On Thursday, Judge Judith Daine approved a deal between prosecutors and Petrova’s legal team, allowing for her release with some restrictions, including limitations on travel and the retention of her passport. “I’ve heard it’s sunny,” Daine remarked to Petrova before she left the courthouse.

Petrova’s colleagues testified on her behalf, emphasizing the value of her research aimed at finding cancer treatments. Her immigration lawyer, Greg Romanowsky, noted that Petrova was considering her future in the U.S., mentioning she had offers from countries interested in supporting her work. “She’s weighing her options right now,” he said, adding that she was thankful to be released.

As part of her release conditions, Petrova must report to law enforcement, including ICE, within 24 hours. She is scheduled to appear in court next week for a probable cause hearing regarding the smuggling charges.