DC delegate issues tongue-in-cheek denial after zebras escape from nearby farm

Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.) says the facts are black and white: She had nothing to do with a curious case of runaway zebras that were reported on the loose near the nation’s capital.

The congresswoman offered an “alibi” on Friday in connection to a recent story involving a pack of the rather recognizable animals. Five zebras escaped more than a week ago from a private farm in the Washington suburb of Prince George’s County, Md.

But in a seemingly defensive — and tongue-in-cheek — statement, Norton denied any involvement in the striped snafu.

“Local news has reported that the zebras were let loose on Saturday or Sunday of last weekend, a period of time during which I was enjoying quiet time at home with family,” Norton, 84, said in a statement.

“My alibi is solid, but given my career of fighting for statehood for the District, which includes years of explaining the importance of having consent of the governed, and given my recent opposition to fences, I can understand why the charge was made,” the longtime D.C. delegate said.

A man had spotted the on-the-go zebras in nearby Upper Marlboro, Md., a day earlier, multiple local news outlets reported. But as of Friday, the four-legged zoo residents were still unaccounted for.

“I hope the owners find the zebras and that all involved live long, full lives,” Norton said.