Surprise, surprise!
Los Angeles Police Department officers were in for an unexpected encounter when they came across a man who abandoned his collection of exotic snakes after being approached. The individual had been showcasing the snakes to earn money from tourists.
“Officers from the Hollywood VICE unit stumbled upon a man flaunting exotic snakes to attract tourist dollars on the Walk of Fame,” the LAPD Hollywood shared in a social media update.
“Upon attempting to speak with him, our elusive ‘Snake Señor’ made a hasty retreat, leaving his slithery companions behind. Better luck next time, buddy,” they quipped.
The specific charges the man might face remain unclear, and there is no confirmation of his apprehension. However, owning certain exotic animals requires a permit, and commercial activities in the area also demand proper authorization.
The encounter occurred while officers were conducting routine patrols along the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The man fled, abandoning several large snakes in his wake.
“Looks like the only thing getting squeezed today was his escape plan,” the department joked.
LAPD’s social media post was set to “La Culebra,” Banda Machos’ song advising people to watch out for snakes.
“‘Ay la Culebra!’ (Watch out for that Snake!),” the department said.
It’s not illegal to own a snake in California, but certain species require a “restricted species permit” that carries a variety of associated fees and rules.
