Dino Heist: The Case of the Smuggled Fossils

This chapter delves into the legal complexities surrounding the repatriation of stolen dinosaur fossils, particularly focusing on a notable case involving Eric Prokopi and the return of a Tyrannosaurus bataar skeleton to Mongolia. It highlights the moral implications of fossil theft and the broader impact on cultural heritage, as well as the intertwined stories of paleontologists, legal representatives, and public figures like Nicolas Cage. Through humor and reflection, the narrative captures the significance of international cooperation in combating illegal fossil trade and the emotional resonance of repatriation events.