Pig that wandered into Ellenboro home safely returned, deputies say
- WCAB News
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
By Annie Dance | WCAB News
ELLENBORO – A pig that wandered into a local home was safely taken into custody and later returned to its owner after what deputies called “one of the more unusual calls for service.”
“Not every call is the same… Bacon and Entering suspect taken into custody. On 02/16/2026, our communications center received one of the more unusual calls for service. A pig had made its way inside a home in the Ellenboro area. The unexpected guest showed zero fear, maximum confidence, and the motive seemed to be finding snacks.
After a short standoff involving a pack of crackers and some highly questionable negotiations, deputies successfully convinced the sus-pig-ious individual to surrender. She was taken into custody without further incident and transported to our good friends at Rutherford County Animal Control Services, operated by Heart of the Foothills Animal Rescue.
The children on scene found the whole situation hilarious and honestly so did we. Moments like this remind us that community policing is not always lights and sirens. Sometimes it is patience. Sometimes it is laughter. And sometimes it is arresting a pig for breaking and entering.
Good news. The owner has now been located, and the suspect who has now been identified as Penelope will soon be released back home with no court date required.”
(Bacon and entering continued below..)
Officials confirmed Penelope the pig is now safely reunited with her family. Deputies said the episode served as a reminder that pets are more than animals—they’re part of the family, and sometimes, community policing involves patience, humor, and a little creativity.
The incident was handled by the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office and Rutherford County Animal Control Services, operated by Heart of the Foothills Animal Rescue.
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