A beloved squirrel named P'Nut and his raccoon companion Fred became the center of a heated controversy after their sudden seizure and death at the hands of state officials.

According to the New York Post, Mark Longo and Daniela Bittner have filed a notice of claim against New York state following the October 30 raid by Department of Environmental Conservation agents who seized and euthanized their pets to test for rabies.

The couple strongly disputes the state's justification for killing the animals, particularly the claim that P'Nut bit an agent during the raid. They argue this explanation could be fabricated, as no evidence has been presented to support the allegation. The animals' deaths have sparked outrage, especially considering both tested negative for rabies post-mortem.

Controversial Raid Raises Questions About Government Authority

Documentation revealed that officials had planned to euthanize P'Nut and Fred at least seven days before the raid, contradicting the state's initial explanation about the alleged bite incident.

The five-hour raid involved armed agents who allegedly intimidated the couple, including making threatening comments about Bittner's immigration status. Agents reportedly conducted an extensive search of the property while detaining the homeowners.

The couple maintains they were following all necessary state regulations for their animal sanctuary, P'Nut's Freedom Farm. They were actively pursuing final permits to legally keep the squirrel as an indoor pet. Their claim emphasizes that the agents acted beyond their warrant's scope by seizing and killing the animals without prior indication.

Longo and Bittner expressed their frustration through their legal claim, stating through their notice:

The killing of Peanut and Fred was not due to fear of rabies, but rather, was a senseless act of violence, perpetrated by government officials in an obscene demonstration of government abuse and an overreach of government power

Long-standing Bond Between Pets And Their Caretakers

P'Nut had been part of Longo's life for seven years, rescued as an orphaned baby squirrel. Fred, a young raccoon, had been brought to their sanctuary months earlier, requiring intensive care. The couple's plan included releasing Fred back into the wild once he reached maturity. Their social media presence showcased the animals' well-being and normal behavior, which they argue should have dispelled any rabies concerns.

The sanctuary operators described their pets as intelligent and charming companions who would not have survived in the wild without human intervention. Their social media following testified to the animals' popularity and the public's investment in their well-being. The sudden loss has affected not only the immediate family but also their online community.

The couple further emphasized in their claim:

The excuse to kill these animals regarding 'rabies', or any 'fear' of the threat of rabies, is/was unfounded, irrational, illogical, unjustified, and unavailing

Legal Proceedings And Damage Assessment

The notice of claim represents the first step in pursuing legal action against New York state. While specific monetary damages haven't been specified, the couple indicates that the full extent of their injuries and damages continues to accumulate. Their legal argument centers on constitutional protections against government overreach and abuse of power.

Longo reports receiving no communication from state officials since the October 30 raid. This silence has added to the couple's frustration and strengthened their resolve to seek legal recourse. The Department of Environmental Conservation has declined to comment on the situation, maintaining their silence as legal proceedings begin.

The case highlights questions about due process and proper handling of domestic wildlife. The couple argues they were denied the opportunity to present their case in court before the animals were killed, an action that cannot be reversed.

Critical Updates On Controversial Case

Mark Longo and Daniela Bittner have initiated legal proceedings against New York state following the seizure and death of their beloved pets, P'Nut, the squirrel, and Fred, the raccoon. The October 30 raid by Department of Environmental Conservation agents led to the animals' deaths, allegedly planned a week in advance despite claims about a bite incident.

The couple seeks damages for what they describe as government overreach and abuse of power, citing their ongoing compliance with state regulations and the unnecessary deaths of their healthy pets. As the Department of Environmental Conservation maintains its silence, the case continues to develop with potential implications for wildlife sanctuaries and pet owners across the state.

Why This Story Matters

This case matters as it underscores the need for accountability and transparency within governmental agencies. It highlights the emotional and legal upheavals faced by individuals when their rights are potentially infringed upon.

Furthermore, it reminds the public of the importance of due process and the rule of law, especially in cases involving the potential for government overreach.

In summary, Longo and Bittner's troubling encounter with DEC agents results in a lawsuit against New York State and raises broader concerns regarding civil liberties and governmental accountability. The killing of P'Nut and Fred following a misjudged rabies scare stands as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of unchecked authority.