COCOA, Fla. — A Cocoa police officer responded to an unusual call Wednesday, July 16, when a concerned father reported an uninvited guest—a small alligator—had taken up residence on his front porch.

Officer Anderson arrived on University Lane to find the reptilian squatter making itself at home, causing alarm among the children inside the residence who were too frightened to leave.

Recognizing the need for specialized assistance, Officer Anderson called in a wildlife officer from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The officer arrived quickly, secured the gator’s jaws with duct tape, and safely relocated the animal.

Before departing, the wildlife officer offered a photo opportunity with Officer Anderson, who added another memorable experience to his growing collection of patrol adventures.

Source: Cocoa Police Department