A shocking yet emotional police bodycam video has gone viral after capturing the moment a pet monkey clung desperately to its owner while officers placed the man under arrest. The unusual and heart-wrenching encounter unfolded during a late-night traffic stop, leaving both officers and viewers stunned.
According to the police report, officers had pulled over a man suspected of multiple vehicle violations and possible possession of illegal substances. However, what began as a standard arrest quickly turned into an unforgettable scene when a small capuchin monkey appeared from the man’s shoulder, wrapping its tiny arms tightly around his neck as officers tried to handcuff him.
In the bodycam footage, officers can be heard saying, “Is that… a monkey?” before realizing the animal refuses to let go. The man, visibly distraught, pleads with officers to be gentle. “Please don’t scare him,” he says, his voice trembling. The monkey appears frightened, clinging tighter as the officers carefully navigate how to handle the situation without causing harm to either the man or the animal.
After securing the suspect, officers try to coax the monkey off, but the small creature remains glued to his owner, squeaking and reaching out whenever anyone gets too close. “He’s not aggressive, he’s just scared,” one officer says in the footage. “He doesn’t understand what’s happening.”
Eventually, animal control is called to the scene to safely remove the monkey. The footage shows officers comforting the animal as they secure it in a small carrier. The man, now handcuffed, looks on with tears in his eyes, whispering, “That’s my baby, please take care of him.”
The video has since spread rapidly online, sparking intense discussions about exotic pets, emotional bonds, and the ethical implications of keeping such animals. Many viewers expressed sympathy for both the man and his pet. “You can tell that monkey loves him,” one commenter wrote. “It’s heartbreaking that it had to end this way.” Another added, “I hope the little guy is okay — animals don’t understand when their world suddenly changes like that.”
Animal welfare experts have weighed in, reminding the public that while primates can form deep emotional attachments, they are not suitable household pets. “Monkeys are highly social, intelligent animals that require specialized care,” said primatologist Dr. Elena Cruz. “Situations like this show the emotional toll captivity can have — not only on the animal but on the owner when separation becomes inevitable.”
Authorities later confirmed that the monkey was placed in the care of a licensed sanctuary pending further investigation into the legality of the pet’s ownership. The man, meanwhile, faces multiple charges unrelated to the animal.
While the clip continues to circulate across social platforms, it has left a lasting impression on viewers — not because of the arrest itself, but because of the undeniable display of loyalty from a frightened creature that simply didn’t want to let go of the person it trusted most.