WAUSAU, Wis. (WFRV) – Police officers in central Wisconsin were faced with multiple “masked bandits” while recently responding to what they called an unusual home intrusion report.
In a post on social media by the Wausau Police Department, multiple “masked suspects” were found inside a home on Wausau’s east side, with two others later found loitering on the roof.
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Officers say no arrests were needed, however, the raccoons were given a firm warning to vacate the premises, a warning police say was largely ignored.
While this situation was not too serious, the police are using it to give the public an important reminder.
First, to avoid raccoons being near or coming inside a home, residents should make sure to secure their trash cans, pet food, and bird feeders. They should also seal any possible easy access points of a home, like the attic, chimneys, or screens.
If residents do encounter raccoons in or around their home, officials say not to approach the animals as they can bite or scratch if threatened and could be carrying diseases like rabies.
Instead, residents should call a licensed wildlife removal service for safe and humane assistance or contact a local humane society or DNR office for additional guidance.
These “masked bandits” may look cute, but it’s best to admire them from a distance!
The Wausua Police Department
Officers did add that if there is an immediate safety concern, residents can and should contact their local police department.