Court Appearance Leaves Man's Pet on a Limb

Craig Buckner arrived at the Washington County Courthouse expecting to be in and out in just a bit. So, like all people who travel with a four-year-old macaw, Buckner placed "Bird" on the limb of a tree outside the courthouse before he went inside.

Unfortunately for Buckner, things didn't go as smoothly as he had hoped and he found himself briefly in custody. Buckner was concerned about Bird and explained the situation to deputies.

They took Buckner outside to retrieve Bird and allowed him to bring him inside into the booking area so he could eat and be cared for. Deputies made a few calls and finally found someone who could come pick up Bird.

"Our Sheriff's Office has very strong core values of doing the right thing," said Deputy Shona McKelvey. "I also have very strong moral values of treating all people with compassion no matter what role I am taking. Mr. Buckner was already in a stressful position and did not need the additional stress and worry of his loved pet, Bird!

"Bringing the two together brought me joy and brought relief to Mr. Buckner and safety to his bird."

Photos Washington County Sheriff's Office