Miramar Beach, Fla. – Federal prosecutors announced that Matthew Weinberg, a local resident, has forfeited a cache of ancient artifacts along with $75,000 in proceeds after a multi‑agency investigation uncovered serious customs violations.
Investigation and seizure
The case began in July 2025 when U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at Pensacola International Airport flagged a shipment bound for Weinberg. The manifest listed two terracotta objects valued at less than $200, but a subsequent appraisal revealed two cuneiform tablets from the region of modern‑day Iraq, dating between 3,000 and 2,000 B.C., worth more than $15,000 combined.
Further review of Weinberg’s import history uncovered additional shipments from Iran, Egypt and Cyprus that were similarly undervalued. Those consignments contained bronze figures, ceramic architectural models and terracotta idols.
Additional items seized
In March 2026, Homeland Security Investigations agents searched Weinberg’s Miramar Beach home and confiscated more items, including ancient Hebrew Torah scrolls, Chinese scroll artwork and Egyptian objects dating to roughly 712‑525 B.C.
U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida stated that the artifacts were prohibited under import restrictions the United States has agreed to with the countries of origin, including Iraq, Egypt and Cyprus. The office also noted that the $75,000 represented proceeds from violations of federal anti‑smuggling laws.
Legal consequences
As part of the settlement, Weinberg will be barred from buying or selling foreign antiquities for a period of two years. All seized artifacts are slated to be returned to their countries of origin, in accordance with international cultural‑heritage agreements.
The coordinated effort involved Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, underscoring the federal government’s commitment to protecting cultural property and enforcing customs regulations.
Community impact
Local officials praised the outcome, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding historic objects and deterring illegal trade that can fund illicit activities. Residents are reminded that the import of cultural artifacts must comply with federal law and international treaties.
For updates on this case and other federal enforcement actions, follow WJHG on social media platforms.
Original reporting: FOX10 WALA Mobile (news) — read the source article.
