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PICS: Jackass star arrested for trying to save the whales

Los Angeles - Jackass star Steve-O was arrested after climbing a crane in Hollywood to protest SeaWorld and drawing dozens of emergency responders to a construction site.

Stephen Glover, 41, scrambled up a crane at least 100 feet high on Sunset Boulevard on Sunday night, inflating a large killer whale balloon emblazoned with "SeaWorld Sucks" and lighting fireworks when he reached the top, Los Angeles police Lt. Michael Ling said.

Glover, known for his outlandish stunts in the Jackass TV show and movies, later climbed down and was taken into custody.

Because the first responders were not sure whether he needed to be rescued, five ambulances, a helicopter and more than 80 firefighters went to the scene, Fire Department spokeswoman Margaret Stewart said.

She said resources were stretched thin because firefighters were called around the same time to rescue the operator of a harbor crane who was stricken with a medical emergency.

"Some of the resources on this hoax could have been devoted to a real emergency," Stewart said.

Glover will be booked on suspicion of several charges, including conspiracy to commit trespassing and filming without a permit.

It is possible the city could seek reimbursement from Glover, but it is too early to know if that will happen and how much could be sought, said Frank Meteljan, a spokesman for the city attorney.

Glover's representative didn't immediately respond to a request for comment. A call to SeaWorld has not been returned.

He was cited last year for another protest against the theme park. Glover said his protest was in response to controversy over the 2103 documentary Blackfish, which criticized SeaWorld's treatment of killer whales.

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