Sioux Falls Man Arrested for Bringing Alligator to Walmart

Sioux Falls Man Arrested for Unusual Walmart IncidentSioux Falls Man Arrested for Unusual Walmart Incident A Sioux Falls man has been arrested after allegedly bringing an alligator into a Walmart store. On Friday evening, police were called to the Walmart located on East 10th Street after receiving reports of a reptile roaming freely inside the establishment. Upon arrival, officers encountered a man, later identified as 32-year-old John Smith, attempting to retrieve a small alligator from beneath a clothing rack. Smith was ordered to release the animal and was subsequently arrested for possession of a live reptile in a public place without a permit. The alligator was safely captured and transported to the Great Plains Zoo for evaluation. According to Smith’s arrest affidavit, he claimed to have purchased the alligator as a pet and was simply trying to find a leash for it inside the Walmart. He expressed remorse for the incident and said he had no intention of causing any harm. The incident sparked a social media frenzy, with many expressing amusement and concern over the unusual Walmart visit. Some netizens questioned the man’s sanity, while others commended the store employees for handling the situation calmly. Walmart officials released a statement condemning the incident, emphasizing that live reptiles are not permitted inside their stores. The company also thanked law enforcement for their swift response. Smith faces a misdemeanor charge of possessing a live reptile in a public place. He was released on bail and is scheduled to appear in court next week. The alligator, a juvenile American alligator, is said to be in good health and will be placed in a rehabilitation facility for observation.