By Associated Press - Sunday, April 19, 2015

LONG BRANCH, N.J. (AP) - Police executing a search warrant at a central New Jersey home made an unexpected discovery: they found a small alligator inside the residence.

It’s not clear who owns the animal, which was turned over to state wildlife officers after it was found Thursday at the Long Branch home. But police say that person could face possible fines of up to $25,000.

No injuries were reported in the incident, and officials say the alligator appeared to be in good health.

Authorities would not say why police detectives were searching the home, or if any arrests have been made in connection with that matter or the discovery of the alligator.

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