They discovered a surprising sight: a pet raccoon with a methane pipe in its mouth during a traffic stop for a suspended license in Ohio.
An attentive officer from the Springfield Township Police Department noticed the raccoon sitting in the driver’s seat, hinting that 55-year-old owner Victoria Vidal might have had questionable uses for drug equipment. This information was shared in a Facebook post.
As it turned out, officers were following up on an aggressive warrant concerning the homeowner.
Somehow, the sight of the raccoon prompted the officers to find a glass methamphetamine pipe, which led them to inspect the vehicle more closely.
On further examination, they uncovered a significant stash of methamphetamine, crack cocaine, and three used glass pipes inside the car.
Bodycam footage showed the raccoon, who appeared submissive, seemingly poking around in a rather chaotic vehicle.
Victoria Vidal was subsequently arrested and charged with multiple counts related to drug possession and for driving with a suspended license.
Fortunately, authorities confirmed that the raccoon was unharmed and would be addressed by the relevant officials regarding ownership documents, as they found that Vidal had the correct paperwork to keep the animal.
“While our officers are prepared for the unexpected, this is certainly a first for us—a raccoon with a methane pipe!” remarked the department, emphasizing that the raccoon was safe.
In addition to her charges, Vidal was also taken into custody by Cuyahoga Falls police for her outstanding warrant.
In Ohio, it is legal to own a raccoon, provided one has the necessary permits.
It’s unclear whether the raccoon tested positive for any substances or if it would be returned to Vidal.
The Springfield Township Police did not offer any comments on the situation when approached.
Previously, Springfield had made headlines related to other unusual animal incidents, with some public figures making bizarre claims about illegal immigrants affecting local wildlife.
