Police say man ordered python to attack

BRIDGEPORT, Conn., June 17 (UPI) -- Police in Bridgeport, Conn., said they arrested a man who allegedly tried to order his pet python to attack his girlfriend and police officers.

Lt. James Viadero said Victor Rodriguez, 21, allegedly refused to open the door for Officers Brian Spillane and Joseph Tesla at his Cambridge Apartments home, The (Bridgeport) Post reported Tuesday.

Viadero said Rodriguez was threatening his girlfriend with his 9-foot-long albino python and attempted to get the snake to attack the two officers after the building superintendent let them into the apartment.

"He was saying, 'Get them!'" Viadero said.

The snake refused to comply and Rodriguez was arrested and charged with disorderly conduct and threatening police.

Assistant Animal Control Officer Mike Tubens said the snake would be kept at a city shelter until it can be reclaimed by its owner.