POLICE officers in York had an unusual detainee on Monday when, after arresting a man in connection with an attempted theft, they had to babysit his snake.

Police were called to the reported theft at around 3.30pm on Monday, September 7, when a man was disturbed while trying to break into a collection box in St Wilfred’s Church, Duncombe Place, York.

A 21-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of attempted theft in connection with the incident at 9.20pm later that day.

The suspect had the snake with him, so officers had to look after it while he was in custody. They kept the animal comfortable by keeping it in a warm room at Fulford Road Police Station, inside a large plastic tube with air holes.

The suspect has been released on bail pending further enquiries.

The snake is believed to be a corn snake, a species of non-venomous North American rat snake that constricts its small prey.