The U.S. banned ivory imports in 1976 , and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora effectively outlawed trade in elephant tissue in 1989 . four in Six states face federal smuggling charges , U.S. attorney says . Benton J. Campbell reportedly disguised as wooden snakes , guitars and statues . Elephant ivory trade illegal in Virginia since 1976 , worldwide since 1976 .
four in Six states face federal smuggling charges , U.S. attorney says . Benton J. Campbell reportedly disguised as wooden snakes , guitars and statues . Elephant ivory trade illegal in Virginia since 1976 , worldwide since 1976 .