Florida Deputy's Unusual Encounter with a Runaway Emu

On January 9, 2026, a runaway emu caused a stir in St. Johns County, Florida, prompting a response from the local sheriff's office. Corporal Thomas Keisler, a 25-year veteran of the St. Johns County Sheriff's Office, was dispatched to capture the large bird that was spotted roaming freely along County Road 13. The unusual situation quickly escalated into a challenging pursuit as the emu evaded capture.

'Never handcuffed an emu': Bodycam shows Florida deputies chasing down feathered fugitive

Upon arriving at the scene, Corporal Keisler found the emu running back and forth on the road. Initially underestimating the difficulty of the task, he attempted to lure the bird with verbal commands. However, the emu proved to be uncooperative, kicking out with its powerful talons and escaping Keisler's grasp multiple times. "In my 25 years, I’ve never handcuffed an emu," Keisler remarked, highlighting the uniqueness of the situation.

'Never handcuffed an emu': Bodycam shows Florida deputies chasing down feathered fugitiveSee it: Runaway emu handcuffed by Florida sheriff's deputy after evading captureNew York Times

After several attempts to corner the emu, Keisler devised a plan to use a makeshift lasso to secure the bird. He successfully managed to handcuff the emu's legs to prevent it from using its talons, stating, "Look who's got you now." The body camera footage captured the humorous yet challenging nature of the encounter, with Keisler engaging in light-hearted banter with the emu as he worked to secure it.

See it: Runaway emu handcuffed by Florida sheriff's deputy after evading capture

Ultimately, Keisler was able to fully restrain the emu without causing any harm. The bird was then safely returned to its owners, who were relieved to have it back. The St. Johns County Sheriff's Office commended Keisler's efforts, noting that he made every attempt to detain the emu without injury. "All criminal charges against the emu were dropped," the office humorously concluded.

See it: Runaway emu handcuffed by Florida sheriff's deputy after evading capture'Never handcuffed an emu': Bodycam shows Florida deputies chasing down feathered fugitiveNew York Times

The incident has drawn attention and amusement from the local community, showcasing the lighter side of law enforcement. Videos of the encounter have circulated widely, highlighting the unusual nature of the event and the dedication of officers like Keisler in handling unexpected situations.

'Never handcuffed an emu': Bodycam shows Florida deputies chasing down feathered fugitive

• “In my 25 years, I’ve never handcuffed an emu,” — Corporal Thomas Keisler, St. Johns County Sheriff's Office

'Never handcuffed an emu': Bodycam shows Florida deputies chasing down feathered fugitive

• “Look who's got you now,” — Corporal Thomas Keisler, during the capture

See it: Runaway emu handcuffed by Florida sheriff's deputy after evading capture

• “Keisler made every effort to detain the emu without causing harm or injury to the animal," the St.” — St. Johns County Sheriff's Office

See it: Runaway emu handcuffed by Florida sheriff's deputy after evading capture

This unusual encounter serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of law enforcement work, where officers may find themselves in unexpected situations, even involving a runaway emu.

'Never handcuffed an emu': Bodycam shows Florida deputies chasing down feathered fugitive