Hamster Hideout Revealed
In a bizarre turn of events, an Ohio man was arrested with hamsters stuffed down his pants after allegedly breaking into a pet store. The suspect, identified as Matthew Pancake, was found in a leopard print onesie with the furry rodents concealed in his clothing, according to police body camera footage.
The Arrest
Columbus police officers discovered Pancake napping on a bench around 4:45 a.m. on Tuesday. In the footage, an officer radios in, “Our suspect has multiple gerbils in his pants,” later correctly identifying the animals as hamsters. The surreal scene, reminiscent of a comedy sketch, shows officers waking Pancake and placing him under arrest.
“Mr. Pancake, you’re under arrest!” one officer shouts. Another officer then reports, “There’s multiple gerbils in his pants. Do you have any more gerbils on you?”
The Break-In
Pancake is accused of breaking into the Petland store, stealing the hamsters, and releasing various animals, including dogs, birds, and bunnies. Surveillance footage allegedly also shows a man in leopard print pajamas breaking into the nearby restaurant Roosters.
Charges and Court Appearance
Matthew Pancake is charged with breaking and entering, as well as vandalism. During his arraignment on Wednesday, a judge set his bond at $10,000.
Community Reaction
The unusual nature of the crime has sparked widespread attention, with many amused by the eccentric details. However, the incident also raises serious concerns about animal welfare and property damage.
