Newly released documents indicate that New York state officials had predetermined plans to euthanize Peanut, a popular social media squirrel, prior to a raid on his owner’s home. The October 30, 2024, operation, involving at least 12 officers, resulted in the seizure and subsequent euthanasia of Peanut and a raccoon named Fred. The decision was based on concerns about potential rabies exposure, despite the animals showing no symptoms.
Peanut, rescued in 2017 by Mark Longo after his mother was killed by a car, became an internet sensation through videos showcasing his antics, such as eating waffles and wearing a cowboy hat. Longo and his wife, Daniela, operated P’Nuts Freedom Farm Animal Sanctuary in Pine City, New York, housing over 300 rescued animals. Although they attempted to obtain a wildlife rehabilitation license, the process was incomplete at the time of the raid.
The raid was initiated following anonymous complaints about unlicensed wildlife possession and potential rabies risks. During the seizure, Peanut reportedly bit a wildlife biologist through protective gloves, prompting immediate euthanasia to facilitate rabies testing. Both Peanut and Fred tested negative for rabies, but the results were disclosed after their deaths, fueling public outrage.
However, the newly released law enforcement documents obtained by Judicial Watch reveal that officials had already planned to euthanize the animals to test for rabies before the October raid, before any claim was made that “Peanut,” the squirrel, had bitten an officer.
Judicial Watch President, Tom Fitton, stated, “The documents show an abuse of power where 12 officers were sent in on a raid to seize Peanut and Fred, who the bureaucrats decided beforehand would be killed. These documents show the killing of Peanut the Squirrel and Fred the Racoon was the result of pure government abuse and insanity.”
The incident sparked widespread criticism, with figures like Elon Musk and Congressman Nick Langworthy condemning the state’s actions as government overreach. Vice President JD Vance referenced Peanut’s death during a campaign rally, highlighting concerns over bureaucratic priorities.
In response to the backlash, the New York Department of Environmental Conservation pledged to review its procedures and improve transparency in future operations. “Peanut’s Law” has been introduced and would “require a 72-hour waiting period before animals from animal sanctuaries are euthanized, possibly long enough to observe symptoms of rabies.”
