US Influencer Sam Jones Faces Visa Review After Taking Baby Wombat

Sam Jones, a U.S. influencer, sparked outrage after a video of her snatching a baby wombat from its mother went viral. In the footage, recorded by a companion, she is seen running with the distressed joey as its mother chases after her, prompting widespread condemnation from Australians and government officials. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke announced that her visa was under review, potentially leading to its cancellation due to the incident. Following the backlash, which included calls for her deportation, Jones voluntarily left Australia. Critics, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, expressed disgust over her actions, emphasizing the distress caused to the mother and the joey. The Wombat Protection Society also condemned the act as an irresponsible stunt for social media attention.