LAKE COUNTY, Mich. – An alligator named Karen was a passenger in a car chase over the weekend in Michigan but officials said she is not facing any charges.
Lake County Sheriff’s Office said that at around 11 p.m. on Saturday, a patrol sergeant saw a vehicle speeding. The patrol sergeant tried to conduct a traffic stop but the car fled the area, leading deputies and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources law enforcement on a short pursuit.
WPBN said that the driver, Joshua Applebaum, 39, got stuck between two trees, which led to the end of the pursuit.
During Applebaum’s arrest, LCSO said deputies discovered an alligator in the passenger seat.
CBS News said Karen attempted to flee the scene when Applebaum was taken into custody but she was unsuccessful.
“The passenger, ‘Karen’ the Alligator, attempted to flee the scene but was taken into custody after a short scuffle. Karen is not facing any charges at this time. We believe she was an unwilling participant during the incident, nor do we believe she was ever in control of the vehicle,” said LCSO.
Applebaum has been booked on several charges including several warrants from another jurisdiction, WPBN said.
