Raccoon Found 'Smoking' Meth Pipe in a Car During Drug Bust

Authorities in the United States (US) were conducting a routine traffic stop when they found a raccoon in the car — with a meth pipe in its mouth. Body camera footage released by the police in Springfield, Ohio, shows the moment the bizarre discovery led to a major drug bust.

It all happened outside a Mattress Firm store on Bechtle Ave around 7:15 pm on May 5. Victoria Vadal, 55, the owner of the car, was stopped with a warrant for arrest. While searching the vehicle, one of the officers noticed “Chewy” the raccoon “smoking” a meth pipe in the driver’s seat.

“Chewy had somehow gotten hold of a glass methamphetamine pipe, leading officers to further inspect the vehicle," said Springfield police.

“Thankfully, Chewy the raccoon was unharmed, and notification was made to the proper authorities to determine that [Vidal] has the proper paperwork and documentation to own the raccoon.”

Turns out, possessing a racoon as a pet is legal in Ohio, provided that its owner has a permit.

The police statement added: “While our officers are trained to expect the unexpected, finding a raccoon holding a meth pipe is a first.”

"No raccoons were hurt or injured in this incident.”

Searching further, the officers found a stash of methamphetamine and crack cocaine, and three used glass pipes, in Vidal’s car.

The Akron resident was arrested and charged with drug possession, three counts of possessing drug paraphernalia and driving despite a suspended licence and an active warrant, on account of which she was turned over to Cuyahoga Falls Police

Police didn’t clarify whether Chewy would be returned to Vidal when she is released from custody.

Ohio is one of 16 US states, including Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Michigan and Pennsylvania, where a person can legally own as a raccoon.

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