WILLISTON, N.D. (AP) — A Williston man charged with disorderly conduct says he's sorry for taking pictures at two schools with a large stuffed tiger.

Chad Nehlsen tells the Williston Herald (http://bit.ly/1VOd5dd ) that he would take it back if he could.

Nehlsen spurred concern from parents and school officials when he went to an elementary school Thursday morning and took pictures of students with the stuffed tiger.

Nehlsen was arrested that day after going to a second school. He says he made a "horrible mistake" and apologized for wasting taxpayer dollars and tying up police time.

Nehlsen says he bought the toy tiger from the Salvation Army in Williston. He says he photographed it in spots around the city and posted them on social media.

The 38-year-old says he "just thought it was cool."