New York’s Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has sparked widespread outcry after forcibly seizing and euthanizing two beloved animals—Peanut the squirrel and Fred the raccoon—from their owner Mark Longo in Elmira, New York. Peanut, who became an internet sensation and Longo’s “best friend,” bit one of the officers during the seizure, resulting in both animals’ deaths under New York’s rabies-testing policy. This aggressive action, involving around ten officers and a search warrant obtained by DEC Investigator Joshua Crain, has since prompted a wave of support for the animals and a legislative response.
In the wake of Peanut’s death, New York Assemblyman Jake Blumencranz introduced “Peanut’s Law.” This proposed legislation would enforce a mandatory waiting period before euthanizing sanctuary animals, aiming to prevent tragic outcomes like Peanut and Fred’s from happening in the future. The bill is intended to provide time for necessary paperwork and allow owners to address rabies concerns without immediate euthanasia.
Longo shared his frustrations publicly, expressing that he was “ready to comply” and complete any paperwork, but faced obstacles from the DEC, who he claimed provided little guidance. Amid public backlash, the DEC launched an internal investigation into the seizure, though no information has been released on the rabies testing outcomes or the status of the allegedly injured official.
With tens of thousands signing a petition in support of Peanut, Longo now plans to sue the DEC, underscoring a significant public debate about animal rights, government intervention, and the handling of sanctuary animals. The tragic case has ignited discussion on TikTok and social media, with many rallying behind the need for “Peanut’s Law” to ensure protections for pets under government scrutiny.
