A recent traffic stop in Springfield, Ohio, took an unexpected twist when police discovered a raccoon holding a meth pipe. The incident occurred on May 5, during a routine check on a vehicle driven by 55-year-old Victoria Vidal, who was pulled over due to a suspended license.
When the officer approached the car, he was surprised to find a raccoon, later named “Chewy,” sitting in the driver’s seat with the pipe in its mouth. This unusual scene prompted the officer to search the vehicle further. During the search, authorities found a significant amount of methamphetamine, crack cocaine, and other drug paraphernalia.
Vidal, a resident of Akron, was taken into custody. She now faces charges related to drug possession and drug paraphernalia, as well as a citation for driving with a suspended license. Additionally, she was booked by the Cuyahoga Falls Police due to an active warrant.
Fortunately, Chewy the raccoon was unharmed during the incident. According to police, finding a raccoon in such a situation was a first for their officers, who are trained to deal with unexpected events. It remains uncertain whether Chewy will be returned to his owner.
In Ohio, individuals can legally own raccoons as pets, provided they complete the necessary paperwork. Other exotic pets permitted in the state include chinchillas, sugar gliders, and even more unusual animals like llamas and emus.
