Florida Deputy Handcuffs Runaway Emu in Unusual Animal Rescue
ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. — In a remarkable and unexpected turn of events, a 25-year veteran of the St. John’s County Sheriff’s Office found himself handcuffing an emu that had escaped and was running loose through a neighborhood. Corporal Keisler responded to the unusual call on Friday after reports surfaced of the large bird wandering free, prompting a unique animal control situation.
According to the sheriff’s office, the emu ignored commands and proved difficult to contain, kicking several times with its powerful talons as it fled on foot. Demonstrating quick thinking and resourcefulness, Cpl. Keisler resorted to lassoing the bird before securing its legs with handcuffs, a first in his quarter-century career.
“In my 25 years, I’ve never handcuffed an emu,” Keisler remarked, as quoted by the National Sheriffs’ Association. “This is definitely a new one.” The emu was unharmed during the incident and was safely returned to its owner shortly thereafter.
Animal control calls involving exotic or large birds are rare but not unprecedented. The United States Department of Agriculture provides guidelines on handling escaped exotic animals to ensure public safety and animal welfare. In this case, the swift action by law enforcement prevented potential harm to both the emu and the community.
The sheriff’s office humorously noted that “all criminal charges against the emu were dropped,” underscoring the lighthearted nature of the event. While this episode stands out for its novelty, it also highlights the diverse challenges law enforcement officers can face beyond typical criminal investigations.
Similar incidents have made headlines in recent years, such as a horse found wandering a busy road in England and a goat attempting to enter a retirement community in Washington, demonstrating that animal escapes can create unexpected public safety challenges. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service often collaborates with local authorities to manage such situations when wildlife or exotic pets are involved.
As communities continue to encounter unusual animal-related incidents, officers like Cpl. Keisler exemplify adaptability and dedication. His quick response ensured the emu’s safe capture without injury, bringing an unusual episode to a peaceful close. The story serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of police work and the varied skills officers must sometimes employ.
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