Peanut the Squirrel’s Family Files Lawsuit Against New York for “Executing” Their Viral Pet

Family of Peanut the Squirrel Takes Legal Action Against New York State

Mark Longo and Daniela Bittner, the grieving family of Peanut the Squirrel, have initiated a lawsuit against the state of New York. They allege that the state’s actions amounted to the unjust “execution”of their beloved pet, who gained fame on TikTok.

The controversy began on October 30, when agents from New York’s Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) raided Longo’s home. This operation led to the seizure of Peanut, along with another animal, a raccoon known online as Fred.

Tragically, the following day, Longo shared the heartbreaking news on social media that both Peanut and Fred had been euthanized to test for rabies. Reports later surfaced indicating that the DEC had planned the execution of Peanut prior to the raid, regardless of whether the animal showed any signs of rabies, citing state laws regarding wild animal ownership.

Claims of Dishonesty and Unjustified Actions

On November 27, an article from The New York Post reported that Longo and Bittner are formally challenging the state’s narrative. They argue that the DEC may have fabricated the claim that an agent was bitten by Peanut, which supposedly warranted the rabies tests.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Peanut The Squirrel (@peanut_the_squirrel12)

The complaint filed by Longo and Bittner emphasizes that even if an agent had been bitten, the decision to euthanize Peanut was unnecessary and illegal. Additionally, they highlight that there is no evidence suggesting that Fred, the raccoon, ever posed a threat to anyone.

Due Process and the Allegations of Inhumane Treatment

The lawsuit further claims that Longo and Bittner were denied due process, as they only learned of the tragic fate of their pets through media reports. They also contend that the raid left their home in disarray.

Peanut the Squirrel — Instagram: peanut_the_squirrel12

According to Dexerto, Longo and Bittner are also contesting the manner in which their animals were put down, arguing that it was executed in a way that lacked compassion. “They were executed, not euthanized,” they stated emphatically.

This incident adds to a growing list of squirrel-related news. Notably, Twitch streamer CaptainGee found himself hospitalized recently after a friendly but unexpected encounter with a squirrel resulted in a painful bite.