New York authorities euthanized internet-famous animals P’Nut the Squirrel and Fred the Raccoon, sparking outrage and accusations of government overreach.
At a Glance
- P’Nut the Squirrel and Fred the Raccoon, social media stars, were euthanized by New York authorities
- The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) initially claimed the animals were euthanized for rabies testing
- It was later revealed that the DEC had planned to euthanize the animals before the raid
- Public outcry led to bomb threats against DEC offices and raised questions about government accountability
- A GoFundMe campaign raised nearly $200,000 for legal action against the DEC
Government Overreach or Necessary Action?
In a shocking turn of events that has left animal lovers and concerned citizens reeling, New York authorities have euthanized two beloved internet-famous animals, P’Nut the Squirrel and Fred the Raccoon. The incident has ignited a firestorm of controversy, raising questions about government overreach, transparency, and the ethical treatment of animals.
The New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and Chemung County Department of Health confirmed the euthanization of P’Nut and Fred, who were seized during a raid on the home of their caretakers, Mark and Danelia Longo, in Pine City. The Longos, who run P’Nuts Freedom Farm Animal Sanctuary, housing about 300 animals, were left devastated by the loss.
Who is Peanut the squirrel and what happened to him? Peanut the squirrel, a beloved pet that garnered internet stardom, has been euthanized by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, leaving his owner devastated. The squirrel, also known as P'Nut or PNUT,… pic.twitter.com/peJ83M3zgX
— ElsieAnna✝💜☮ (@BarbaraRom20315) November 4, 2024
Contradictory Claims and Public Backlash
The DEC’s initial justification for the euthanization was a claim that the animals needed to be tested for rabies after an investigator was allegedly bitten by P’Nut. However, this narrative quickly unraveled as new information came to light. The New York Post reported that the DEC planned to have poor P’Nut and Fred put down before the raid.
The incident has drawn criticism from high-profile figures, including Elon Musk and Senator JD Vance, who have publicly condemned the DEC’s actions. The backlash has been so severe that bomb threats were made against DEC offices, forcing employees to work remotely as police investigated.
Lack of Transparency and Accountability
Perhaps most damning is the fact that the rabies test results, obtained by The New York Post from the county, showed that both P’Nut and Fred were rabies-free. The DEC’s handling of this situation reeks of typical bureaucratic behavior – overreaction followed by a cover-up. The agency’s reluctance to provide clear, timely information to the public only serves to deepen suspicions.
Public Response and Call for Action
Supporters of P’Nut and Fred have launched a GoFundMe campaign that raised nearly $200,000. The funds will support legal action against the DEC and promote more compassionate wildlife management practices.
While bomb threats and violent reactions are never acceptable, the intense public outcry necessitates a thorough investigation into the DEC’s actions. However, there is skepticism about whether the state legislature will take up the cause, given New York’s status as a one-party state.
