Feb 9 • 06:56 UTC 🇦🇺 Australia ABC News AU

Croc wrangler Matt Wright fined for landing chopper in backyard

Crocodile wrangler Matt Wright has been fined $10,000 for illegally landing his helicopter in his backyard in Darwin, Australia.

Matt Wright, the celebrity crocodile wrangler known for his appearances on 'Outback Wrangler' and 'Wild Croc Territory', has been fined $10,000 for landing his helicopter on his rural property in Darwin. This violation comes after a mandated enforcement notice from the NT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NTCAT), prohibiting the use of his backyard as a helicopter landing site. The hearing found that Wright's actions constituted a breach of Northern Territory planning laws, raising concerns about compliance with regulations meant to maintain public safety and land use integrity.

Earlier this year, Wright was also sentenced to five months in prison for unrelated charges stemming from a legal case that lasted several months in the Northern Territory Supreme Court. This combination of legal troubles has cast a shadow over Wright's career, as he is not only grappling with the penalties associated with his helicopter landing violation but is also navigating the consequences of his prior convictions. His recent actions have sparked discussions on celebrity accountability and the potential impact of fame on legal compliance.

As the case evolves, it reflects broader themes of wildlife management, law enforcement, and the responsibilities of public figures in respecting local regulations. The fine and ongoing prison sentence signal that even public figures like Wright are subject to the same legal standards as ordinary citizens. The incident raises questions about the balance between personal freedoms and public regulations, particularly concerning land use and airborne activities.

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