This is a completely true and totally bizarre occurrence.

A Burlington man face a number of criminal charges for mistreating a racoon that he had living in the basement of his home.

Halton Regional Police had to obtain a search warrant on January 20 to enter the Burlington home. They were assisted by the Burlington Fire Department, Animal Control and Emergency Services officers.

Police said they obtained information that a man was “mistreating” a wild racoon, which lived in his basement.

“Further information was obtained that there were multiple electrical and fire code violations inside the home,” according to a release by Halton police.

Officers said they located a racoon in a locked cage inside the residence.

“Unfortunate due to the health condition of the racoon, it was seized and euthanized by Animal Control,” police said.

A 55-year-old man, whose name was not released, is charged with causing damage or injury to an animal, breach release order, mischief over $5,000 and keep live game wildlife in captivity, which is contrary to the Fishing and Wildlife Conservation Act.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Sgt. Scott Heyerman of the 3 District Street Crime Unit at 905-825-4777 ext. 2342.

Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers. “See something? Hear something? Know something? Contact Crime Stoppers” at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca.