In a bizarre and mule-tastic turn of events, an Illinois man has found himself in hot hay for a donkey-related incident that has left the internet braying with laughter and disbelief.

Meet Lucas Dietrich, an 18-year-old with a punchy sense of humor and questionable decision-making skills.

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It all started when Lucas decided to attend a birthday party at Willoughby Farm in Collinsville, which is known for its picturesque landscapes and adorable animal residents.

Little did anyone know that this seemingly innocent celebration would take an unexpected donkey-shaped detour.

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According to eyewitnesses, Lucas Dietrich approached Amore, the 13-year-old miniature Mediterranean donkey, right under the donkey's right ear.

Before you get too concerned for Amore, worry not. The sturdy donkey emerged from this unusual face-off with nary a scratch. Seems like Lucas packed a punch about as powerful as a feather duster.

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What makes this tall tale even more absurd is that Lucas decided to immortalize his donkey-drama by recording it and sharing it with the world on his Twitter account.

Clearly, he believed his "assault" on the donkey would be a hit with his followers. And oh, how right he was – but not in the way he imagined!

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The moment the video surfaced, it didn't take long for eagle-eyed netizens to spot the donkey-punching shenanigans. The internet erupted in a mix of bewilderment, outrage, and, of course, an avalanche of puns.

But while the online community was guffawing at the audacity of Lucas's donkey escapades, the long arm of the law had its sights set on him.

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Soon enough, the police received tips about the video and, with their detective hats on, promptly identified Lucas Dietrich as the infamous donkey assailant.

Dietrich was charged with one count of cruel treatment of animals and one count of depiction of animal cruelty, according to Smoking Gun. Both are misdemeanors.

He was also banned from Willoughby Farm.

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