For one Butler County resident on Tuesday, the uninvited houseguest hiding under the bed was not a burglar, but a snake. Deputies with the Butler County Sheriff’s Office spent part of their day coaxing the reptile out of a bedroom and getting it safely back outside.
The short clip, recorded by the sheriff’s office, shows officers carefully working the animal out from under a bed and securing it for transport. The snake was not hurt and was later released into nearby woods.
The video was shared by the Butler County Sheriff’s Office and quickly caught local media attention. As reported by WBAL NewsRadio, Deputy Brittney Koch corralled the snake and eventually relocated it back to the woods.
What the video shows
The clip is brief, but it tells the story. Deputies move calmly through the bedroom, keep the animal in sight, then scoop it up and carry it outside for release. There is no visible panic in the footage. The deputies keep their cool and the homeowner stays at a safe distance while they handle the situation.
The sheriff’s office tagged the post as one of the many unusual calls that land in a deputy’s lap, a reminder that not every dispatch is about handcuffs and high-speed pursuits.
Why snakes turn up in homes
Summer in Ohio is prime time for spotting snakes where you might not want to see them. As the Ohio State University Extension puts it, “Garter snakes are most active during the day and on sunny summer days are often found basking on rocks, sidewalks, decks, or patios,” and many common species will wander into yards and houses looking for shelter or prey. Most snakes that show up around homes are non-venomous, although Ohio is home to three venomous species.
If you find one
Experts say the main rule is simple: do not try to handle a snake yourself. Instead, call animal control or local law enforcement if the animal is inside your home or you think it might be dangerous.
The Butler County Sheriff has leaned on social media to highlight both oddball calls and basic safety tips, something local outlets have picked up on. As reported by WCPO, Sheriff Richard Jones often posts videos and updates on the department's Facebook page. If you believe a snake could be venomous or anyone is in immediate danger, authorities advise calling emergency services right away.
