Louis Antonellis, 35, of Billerica, Mass., is facing disorderly conduct charges after allegedly setting the rodents loose in the dining area of The Capital Grille on Aug. 3.

According to a Boston Police Department report, witnesses noticed Antonellis walk into the restaurant carrying a white shopping bag. He opened the bag and released three white lab rats in an area where approximately 140 restaurant patrons were enjoying their steak dinners.

Police said "commotion ensued" as Antonellis fled the restaurant and was chased by the manager and valet. Antonellis was apprehended by Boston University police officers a few blocks from the restaurant.

According to the Boston Globe, Antonellis was brought back to the restaurant, where he was identified as the rodent-releasing suspect.

The Globe reported that Antonellis is a member of a local workers' union that was involved in a dispute with The Capital Grille, but the restaurant's managers would not comment on those claims.

"We're very happy the suspect has been apprehended," said Chris Scott, a managing partner of the restaurant.

The rats were captured by restaurant personnel and will be put up for adoption by Animal Services.