12-foot python found after cats reported missing

PORT ST. LUCIE, FL -- Police in Port St. Lucie, Florida, found a 12-foot-long Burmese python in the bushes after several neighborhood cats were reported missing.

The 120 lb. snake reportedly belongs to a resident in the neighborhood. Multiple neighbors have reported missing cats recently, and at least one has been found dead.

Officials say the snake will not be put down but will instead give it to a breeder who is licensed by the Florida Wildlife Commission.

It is illegal to own a python in Florida without a Florida Wildlife Commission permit and license.