Long Island Bass Fisherman Reels in Alligator

Newsday reports that the "elusive alligator" that has been seen in Hewlett creek for weeks was caught by Ron Settino, a 63-year-old bass fisherman. He said, "I've been hunting this guy for a while now. Considering the fact that he doesn't belong here, I really wanted to get him out." Apparently the 33-inch (but very dangerous) alligator bit an artificial lure, and another fisherman helped pick it up. Settino added, "The alligator was good. He really cooperated big time." The Department of Environmental Conservation, which had been trying to catch the reptile for weeks, picked up the alligator and it will be taken to an animal sanctuary. It's believed that the alligator was an illegal pet that escaped or was released.