This police report almost seems like someone is pulling our leg. But a picture of the fox proves it’s no joke.

Reston Police District – Animal Control Officers charged a 20-year-old Herndon area woman with Unlawful Possession of Wildlife after she was seen walking a fox wearing a skeleton costume at Reston Towne Center around 10:30 a.m. on Halloween.

Officers charged Alayna Sitterson of 23096 Fontwell Square after it was determined she did not have the proper permits issued by the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries. The Silver Cross Fox, named “Swiper,” is seven months old and

Swiper was seized by officers and will be held at the Animal Shelter until it is determined whether or not DGIF will issue the required special permit.

A fox named Swiper

according to the owner, is neutered, litter-box trained and vaccinated for rabies.

Update:

UPDATE: Fox Released Back To Owner

Animal Control officers released “Swiper” back to his owner around 7 p.m. Monday, November 1. After further consultation with biologists from the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, officials there determined that the fox was a domesticated breed and that the owner did not need a specific permit for the pet.