Tennessee police say they were joking about ‘meth-gators’

A Tennessee police department said it was joking when it warned locals not to flush drugs down toilets or drains for fear of creating “meth-gators” in a now-viral post. 

“Let us be perfectly clear: the meth gator was a humorous illustration used to highlight the dangers of flushing drugs and other substances down your toilet,” the Loretto Police Department said on Facebook Friday. “Alas, the meth-gator is not real. Let’s say that again: THE METH GATOR IS NOT (at this time) REAL.” 

{mosads} The police department said they “never expected” the response they have received from the original post, which was shared on July 13. The post was shared worldwide in China, Australia, England, Russia and New Zealand, according to the update. They added that they have received a “few calls from professionals fearing we actually had a meth influenced gator in our custody.”

The department also said they are hoping to “steer this fame towards some good for our community,” announcing that they will be launching a website to purchase meth-gator shirts and other apparel. All of the proceeds will be donated to a local charity that helps children affected by drug use, according to the post. The department said if they raise enough money, they are also hoping to support school programs that address drug use.

“With your help we can do this and make a difference in a child’s life and our community,” the post said.