In a case that has ignited public outrage and skepticism, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is under scrutiny following the seizure and euthanization of Peanut, an internet-famous squirrel, and Fred, a raccoon, both beloved pets of Mark Longo in rural New York.
The DEC has since launched an internal investigation into its handling of the incident, citing the need to examine its policies and practices.
Mark Longo, 34, known online for posting videos of Peanut—often seen snacking on toast waffles or donning miniature hats—has faced an outpouring of support amid what many see as an unjust raid.
On October 30, approximately ten DEC officers arrived at Longo’s Elmira sanctuary, claiming the seizure was due to the illegal housing of wildlife.
Peanut and Fred were taken from his 350-acre property and subsequently euthanized, allegedly to test for rabies after a bite incident involving Peanut.
“A person involved with the investigation was bitten by the squirrel. To test for rabies, both animals were euthanized,” a DEC spokesperson confirmed.
“We are reviewing internal policies and procedures to ensure we continue serving this core mission.”
According to the New York State Department of Health, rabies testing requires brain tissue samples, thus necessitating euthanasia.
However, squirrels rarely contract rabies, which has fueled questions surrounding the decision.
Court documents show that DEC Investigator Joshua Crain, celebrated as “Wildlife Officer of the Year” in 2022, secured the search warrant citing possible illegal housing without mentioning any rabies concerns.
Known for his advocacy of education over enforcement, Crain’s role in the incident has sparked both criticism and concern.
Longo expressed his frustration, stating, “What happened in my house, if you think that was an educational [action]—I don’t know.”
While Longo and his supporters press for answers, officials have yet to disclose the results of the rabies tests conducted on Peanut and Fred.
Health authorities, including the Wadsworth Center lab, which typically releases rabies test results within 72 hours, have remained silent.
Senator Dan Stec publicly condemned the opacity, questioning, “Where is the state secret here? Whose interest are they protecting?”
The DEC’s silence on the rabies findings has provoked further tension.
Amid escalating backlash, officials reported receiving multiple bomb threats against state facilities.
The Police Benevolent Association of New York State, representing DEC officers, urged the public for restraint, reminding them, “[DEC officers] are their friends, family, and neighbors and do not deserve to live in fear for upholding the law.”
Longo, devastated by the loss, is considering legal action against the DEC.
“We fight and work every day to pay our state taxes, and they turn around and do this to a family,” he lamented, adding that the agency’s priorities seemed misplaced.
The Donald Trump campaign also weighed in, with a TikTok post decrying Peanut’s death as “needless killing by Democrat bureaucrats.”
With the investigation ongoing and calls for transparency growing louder, the case of Peanut the squirrel has become a flashpoint, underscoring deep-seated concerns over government actions and the policies that govern wildlife in New York.
The New York Post and other media sources have speculated about the potential for significant policy changes as the DEC continues its internal review.
In the meantime, Longo remains determined to seek justice for Peanut and Fred, questioning the very foundations of the DEC’s practices and hoping for support in his legal journey.
Featured Image Credit: (Instagram/ @peanut_the_squirrel12)
