In what police are calling one of the strangest arrests they’ve ever made, a man in Ohio was taken into custody after being spotted casually walking down a suburban sidewalk holding a live alligator.
The bizarre encounter, captured on an officer’s bodycam and now viral across social media, shows the man in a bright blue hoodie strolling along a residential street with the reptile tucked under his arm as if it were a household pet. When approached by officers, he appeared calm — even cheerful — and claimed he was “just taking his buddy for some fresh air.”
Authorities say the incident began when neighbors called 911 after seeing the man walking with the alligator on a leash earlier that afternoon. “We thought it was a joke,” said one resident. “Then we saw the tail move. That’s when we called the cops.”
When officers arrived, they ordered the man to stop and asked if the animal was real. “Of course he’s real,” the man reportedly replied. “He’s my friend, his name’s Carl.” The officer, clearly stunned, can be heard on the video saying, “Sir, you can’t just walk around with an alligator.”
Officials from animal control were soon called to the scene and confirmed that the reptile was a four-foot American alligator — a species illegal to own in most parts of Ohio without a special permit. The man did not have one. He was promptly taken into custody for possession of a dangerous wild animal and endangerment of the public.
During questioning, the man insisted he meant no harm and that the alligator had been raised “lovingly” as a pet since it was small enough to fit in his hand. “He’s never hurt anyone,” the man said. “He likes walks, sunlight, and chicken nuggets.”
The story quickly gained traction online, with users dubbing it “the weirdest reason to get arrested this year.” Memes and jokes flooded social media within hours. “Florida energy in Ohio,” one commenter quipped. Another added, “That gator looks like it’s just as confused as everyone else.”
Police later issued a statement reminding the public that wild or exotic animals — including alligators, large snakes, and big cats — are not legal to possess without proper licensing. “This could have ended very badly,” a spokesperson said. “Even small alligators are capable of inflicting serious injuries.”
Animal control has since transferred the reptile to a licensed wildlife rescue facility, where it will receive proper care. The man was released on bail and is expected to face misdemeanor charges in municipal court later this month.
Despite the legal trouble, the incident has turned the man into an unlikely online celebrity, with some supporters starting petitions to “free Carl the Alligator.”
Police, however, have made it clear: “If you’re walking around with an alligator — no matter how friendly you think it is — expect to get stopped.”
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