Nicholasville, Kentucky, USA – On January 9, 2026, the SJSO responded to reports of a runaway emu on County Road 13.

Cpl. Keisler attempted to secure the large bird, but the emu ignored commands, kicked several times with its powerful talons, and fled on foot. After a brief chase, the officer cornered the emu, secured it with a makeshift lasso, and handcuffed its legs to prevent injury.

“In my 25 years, I’ve never handcuffed an emu,” Cpl. Keisler said. “This is definitely a new one.”

The officer took care to detain the animal safely, ensuring it was not harmed. The emu was then returned to its owners and reunited with its home safely. No criminal charges were pursued against the animal.

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