Squirrel Sensation Peanut Seized by New York Authorities Amid Controversy

Friday 01 November 2024 - 08:50

In a surprising turn of events, a beloved squirrel named Peanut, who has captured the hearts of social media users, was seized by New York state officials during a raid at his owner’s home. Mark Longo, the 34-year-old owner from Pine City, is urgently appealing for the return of his cherished pet, which has gained a massive following on platforms like Instagram and TikTok over the past seven years.

The incident unfolded when at least six officers from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) arrived at Longo's residence following multiple anonymous complaints regarding Peanut's living conditions. "The DEC stormed into my house without a search warrant to seize a squirrel!" Longo exclaimed, expressing his disbelief at being treated like a criminal. Alongside Peanut, the officers also confiscated Fred, a raccoon that Longo had taken in more recently.

By Thursday evening, Longo had gathered nearly 20,000 signatures on a petition advocating for Peanut’s return and announced that he had engaged legal representation to assist in the matter. A DEC spokesperson stated that the agency initiated an investigation after receiving reports about potentially unsafe housing for wildlife that could carry rabies and concerns regarding the illegal keeping of wild animals as pets.

Longo, who runs an animal sanctuary called P'Nuts Freedom Farm Animal Sanctuary, shared his distress on social media about Peanut's sudden removal. He voiced fears that Peanut might have been euthanized, stating, "I have no idea if Peanut is still alive. I don't know where he is." The DEC has not confirmed whether Peanut has been euthanized.

Longo’s connection with Peanut began seven years ago when he rescued the squirrel after witnessing its mother being struck by a vehicle in New York City. After caring for Peanut for eight months and attempting to release him back into the wild, only to find him injured shortly thereafter, Longo decided to keep him as an indoor pet. Their bond blossomed into internet fame as Longo began sharing videos of Peanut interacting with his cat and showcasing his unique personality, including moments where he wears a cowboy hat or enjoys a waffle while donning crocheted bunny ears.

Previously residing in Norwalk, Connecticut, Longo moved to upstate New York last year to establish his sanctuary, which opened in April 2023 and currently houses around 300 animals including horses and goats. While he acknowledges that owning a wild animal without a license is illegal in New York, Longo claims he was in the process of obtaining the necessary certification for Peanut as an educational animal.

"If we’re not following the rules, please guide us in the right direction," he urged. As for Fred, Longo intended to rehabilitate the raccoon before releasing it back into its natural habitat.

Longo's plight echoes that of other pet owners in New York who have contested similar confiscations by state authorities. In March, another individual from Buffalo initiated legal action against the DEC after their alligator was seized.

The fate of Peanut remains uncertain as Longo continues to advocate for his return, hoping to reunite with his furry companion who has become much more than just a pet; he is a symbol of joy and connection in the digital age.