Two ponies that escaped from a home in neighboring Hoffman Estates, were reported on the loose in Elgin at 3 a.m..
Elgin Police Department Sgt. Matt Jacobucci says it's not a situation officers are trained to handle.
"As you can imagine, this is not an everyday call," he said.
"Ultimately our main responsibility is the safety---safety of the ponies, but ultimately the people---cars driving by.
If you can imagine, a pony that gets hit by a car, that could be some extreme damage," Jacobucci added.
With equipment borrowed from a citizen who owns horses, Elgin Police were able to safely secure both ponies by 8 a.m.
Sgt. Jacobucci says the officers have taken the 'horsing around' in stride:
"You almost have to laugh. You're trying to do your best, dealing with ponies you know, at the same time making sure everyone's safe," he said.
"I've been on it for 14 years, and this is a first," Jacobucci concluded.
The two ponies---uninjured---are back at their home.
