The owners of Peanut the Squirrel and Fred the Raccoon have filed a $10 million lawsuit against the State of New York after their popular pets were seized and euthanized by authorities.
Peanut, the unusual pet squirrel, had become an international social media sensation over the past seven years, amassing more than 900,000 Instagram followers at the height of his fame. His owners, Mark Longo and Daniela Bittner, often dressed him in adorable outfits and taught him quirky tricks, winning the hearts of fans worldwide.
However, tragedy struck in October 2024 when the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) raided their home, seizing both Peanut and Fred. Both animals were later euthanized, sparking outrage from their owners and online followers.
Longo expressed his heartbreak on Instagram, writing:
“Well internet, you WON. You took one of the most amazing animals away from me because of your selfishness. To the group of people who called DEC, there’s a special place in hell for you.”
He added that on October 30, 2024, DEC officers arrived at his home, took Peanut, and had him euthanized. “I’m in shock, disbelief, and disgusted to the people who did this to PNUT. For the last seven years, Peanut has been my best friend, the center of my world,” he wrote.
Authorities claimed they had received reports of illegal wildlife ownership and concerns over potential rabies risk. Officials alleged Peanut bit an agent through thick gloves during the raid, prompting testing. Both animals tested negative for rabies, yet neither pet was returned.
The lawsuit, filed August 7, 2025, accuses the state of a “senseless act of violence” and an “obscene demonstration of government abuse.” It also claims the raid involved nine officers who spent five hours ransacking the home, and that the animals were not merely euthanized, but “executed.”
While it is illegal to keep squirrels and raccoons as pets in New York, Longo insists this was a premeditated targeting and “assassination,” stating that squirrels do not transmit rabies.
This legal battle is not their first — on June 27, 2025, the couple filed a separate lawsuit in Chemung County Supreme Court against the county, the City of Elmira, and 36 individuals from various levels of government.
“Filing these lawsuits will allow us to create a movement,” Longo told USA Today. “They destroyed my family. I cry almost every day knowing that portion of my life is gone.”
Attorney Nora Constance Marino, representing the couple, said:
“We hope to obtain justice, not just for my clients and the violation of their rights, but for Peanut and Fred, and all animals. Their deaths should not be in vain.”
The lawsuit seeks $10 million for emotional distress, financial loss, and the destruction of their family life. Peanut had been featured in monetized social media posts, cameo appearances, and even OnlyFans content — making him not only a beloved pet but also a significant source of income for the couple.
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