Members of the Deptford Police Department made some social media waves after catching a 5-foot snake that slithered its way into a resident’s basement.
In a Facebook post, the department explained that Sgt. Grogan’s Patrol Squad was dispatched to an animal call. In the post, the author jokingly dubbed the critter a “Death Noodle,” while showing Patrol Officer William Bittner “posing with the offender.”
According to an updated post, some residents took offense at the “Death Noodle” moniker, given that the snake was a harmless Rat Snake and posed no danger to the homeowner. Another photo was posted of the snake wearing a birthday hat.
“They felt our remarks were insensitive,” read the updated post.
“In an effort to remain transparent, we tracked down the snake in question. He’s a 5’ long Rat Snake, born and raised in Deptford Township.”
“His name is Julius. Julius Squeezer. We added a recent photo of Mr. Squeezer. The photo depicts Julius at his daughter’s birthday party. He may look dangerous, but he’s just a big, squirmy teddy bear. Hope this clears the air,” the post concluded.
Julius was released back into a wooded area.
