Hutto police cite rabbits as cause for ‘rampant crime sprees’ against Christmas lights

HUTTO, Texas – The Hutto police department is warning residents about the likely culprit for damaged Christmas lights across the city: the cottontail rabbit.

In a public service announcement posted to the department’s Facebook page, police say that while the rabbits are usually timid, the bunnies “go on rampant crime sprees.”

The damage caused by the rabbits can often “besmirch the reputation of local youth,” the post says.

Light strand decorations at or near ground level are prime for rabbits to chew through the wire, police said.

Commenters on the Facebook post poked fun with gifs and sly jokes; however, some said that the rabbits might misinterpret the strands of lights as potential food.

“Anyone with a house rabbit will tell you that rabbits absolutely love to chew on wires,” one comment said.

Another commenter urged the public to contact the House Rabbit Resource Network should they spot a rabbit that is not wild.

Also on KSAT:

• Antique book store on Broadway to close, Half Price Books could follow after owner sells buildings
• TXDOT gives safety tips amid increased law enforcement presence on Texas roads during holiday season
• Two new facility dogs bring smiles to staff at Brooke Army Medical Center