Created: 11/5/2009 11:09:21 AM 
BRADENTON, Fla. -- Trapper Justin Matthews has been arrested in connection with staging the capture of a 14-foot Burmese python in a neighborhood drainage pipe.
Shortly after the incident in July, Matthews was confronted by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and admitted buying the snake then setting it free illegally to call attention to the problem of irresponsible pet ownership.
He is charged with a single, third-degree felony count of misusing a 911 system and a second-degree misdemeanor violation of maintaining captive wildlife in an unsafe manner, resulting in threats to the public's safety.
According to the FWC, during the capture in a drainage pipe, Matthews said he was performing a public service and the snake posed a risk to children at a nearby school.
However, the release of the snake in the wild and a subsequent call to 911 to request emergency help have Matthews in trouble with the law for the very reason he says he sought publicity.
Burmese pythons are a threat to native wildlife in Florida and the state's environment, according to the FWC.
Owners must have a permit and meet certain requirements. Reptiles also must be microchipped.
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