Deputies in Onslow County had an unexpected encounter with a prehistoric-looking loiterer on Wednesday, when a massive alligator was caught chilling near the double yellow line on Old 30 Road.
Witnesses say the alligator caught in Onslow County looked completely unbothered by passing traffic, clearly ignoring all signs prohibiting “loitering or lounging on roadways.” The reptile, affectionately nicknamed “Pepe the Gator” by amused locals, measured nearly 10 feet long and weighed an estimated 350 to 400 pounds.
In a hilarious twist, deputies cited Pepe for several creative “infractions,” including:
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Suspicion of Being a Dinosaur Without Proper Papers
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Public Loitering with Intent to Sunbathe
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Obstructing Traffic in the First Degree
Alligator Caught in Onslow County
Despite the comical charges, the situation was handled with care. No injuries were reported — unless you count the bruised ego of a gator who definitely refused to be cuffed.
Authorities say the alligator caught was professionally and safely relocated to a natural environment far from roadways and traffic. And no, despite his viral moment, Pepe did not ride shotgun in the patrol car.
The moment quickly gained traction on social media, with many applauding the deputies’ calm, safe, and humorous response to a very out-of-place sunbather.
