Floridian Arrested in Sydney for Gold-Plated Gun Before Clown School

In May 2023, Liliana Goodson, a 29-year-old from Florida, was apprehended at Sydney Airport while attempting to smuggle a 24-karat gold-plated Colt .45-style pistol and ammunition in their luggage. Goodson was en route to a clown school in Sydney when authorities discovered the weapon. Despite initially claiming to have forgotten about the gun, investigators found that Goodson had previously searched online about carrying a firearm in their suitcase, indicating premeditation. Goodson, who holds a concealed carry license in the U.S., expressed fear of using the gun and mentioned that brandishing it in Los Angeles would cause people to scatter. During their court appearance, Goodson performed a backflip before pleading guilty to the charges of importing prohibited goods. Their attorney argued that Goodson did not intend to import a firearm and was struggling with mental health issues. After six months of awaiting trial, Goodson is set to return to court in November for sentencing. The incident has not only jeopardized their plans for clown school but has also led them to consider pursuing an acting career instead. This case highlights the complexities surrounding firearm regulations and mental health considerations in legal proceedings. The Australian authorities have taken a firm stance on illegal firearm imports, reflecting the country's strict gun control laws. Goodson's situation serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of attempting to transport prohibited items across international borders, especially when mental health challenges are involved.