Cop cat has a job to do in Lindenhurst

A misdemeanor is a minor crime. Something less than a felony.

It's also a chubby adolescent cat.

"Mister Meanor," a former stray feline, is part of the family at the Lindenhurst police station.

"He's a little chunky," says Police Chief Jack McKeever. "He's not particularly affectionate but still friendly."

A community service officer found Meanor about eight years ago. Since the tagless, homeless cat needed a place to stay, the staff welcomed him in.

You might find Meanor plopped in the leather guest chair in McKeever's office. He'll hang out with the cops, the dispatcher or just chill on his carpeted pedestal in the conference room.

Meanor has the run of the place unless there's a bad guy in custody. "That's when Meanor gets sent to another room," McKeever said.

He's not just a department mascot. Meanor's purring and slinking around is a needed distraction for impatient kids waiting for their parents to fill out forms.

"Meanor knows when he's on," McKeever said. "He definitely has a Hollywood streak in him. He knows he has a job to do around here."

He's used to publicity and has had more than his 15 minutes of fame. Meanor has been featured several times in the local press. "We've got scrapbook on this guy," McKeever says.

His fame may be on the rise as Meanor prepares to start an Q & A column on the Village of Lindenhurst's Web site.

The "Ask Mister Meanor" section will feature brilliant and accurate answers to questions raised by online readers.

"I expect Meanor to have a decidedly pro-cat bias," McKeever said. "Dogs will definitely know their place."