Pablo Torre Finds Out
Jaw & Order: The Case of the Stolen Dinosaur Bones (and Nicolas Cage)
Apr 15, 2025
Martin Bell, a former federal prosecutor known for tackling high-profile cases, shares the wild story of suing over a stolen 70-million-year-old dinosaur skeleton. He teams up with a personal injury lawyer and navigates the murky waters of fossil trafficking, cultural laws, and even a Florida heist. The conversation hilariously intertwines law, paleontology, and the unexpected involvement of Nicolas Cage. Expect a riveting look at the intersection of legal battles and celebrity culture in the world of dinosaur bones!
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Quick takeaways
- The legal battle over the Tyrannosaurus bataar skeleton highlights the critical intersection of cultural heritage and international law regarding looted artifacts.
- Nicolas Cage's involvement in returning a dinosaur skull raises awareness of the legitimacy of dinosaur fossil ownership amidst illegal trade controversies.
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The Journey of a Tyrannosaurus Skeleton
A legal case arose involving a 24-foot-long Tyrannosaurus bataar skeleton, which became a focal point for a civil forfeiture case led by an experienced federal prosecutor. The case stemmed from questions concerning the skeleton's origins and ownership, which sparked interest among paleontologists and law enforcement alike. The investigation revealed that the fossil had been looted from Mongolia and was subject to strict cultural patrimony laws. This legal precedent marked a significant moment in recognizing the importance of dinosaur fossils as items of cultural importance, paving the way for future cases regarding dinosaur remains.
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