Breaking News: Owners Strike Back for $10 Million After P’Nut Meets a Bizarre Fate
Picture this: a charming squirrel named P’Nut—beloved by its family for squawking like a tiny, fluffy alarm clock—gets taken by New York’s state officials, only to be euthanized. The family is now taking the legal route, demanding a colossal $10 million in damages. Here’s the scoop on the lawsuit filed Thursday in the New York Court of Claims.
Why the Family is Fighting Back
- Sweet P’Nut was more than a pet; it was a cuddly mascot that brought smiles to everyone in the household.
- According to the claim, state workers seized the squirrel under the guise of “animal protection,” but the family believes the treatment was unnecessary and cruel.
- Cutest part? The lawsuit argues the state’s actions caused deep emotional distress—like losing your favorite snack before it was even ready to bite.
- The family seeks $10 million in damages, a figure that could make the state rethink its “wildlife war” strategy.
What the Court of Claims Wants to Hear
The family’s legal team is preparing to present evidence that proving the state’s treatment of P’Nut was not only mishandled but also expensive in a monetary sense. They’re building a case around:
- Inadequate handling procedures
- Negligence toward the squirrel’s welfare
- Emotional harm inflicted on the owners
- Potential childhood trauma for the family members, especially the kids who saw their “cheesy fur friend” go away.
Under the Spotlight, New York State Faces Pressure
For the state, this lawsuit means more than just $10 million. It’s a public spotlight on how they manage wildlife rescues and the emotional fallout for pet owners. The case could be pivotal for future policies, possibly preventing similar heartbreaks.
Stay tuned as this high‑stakes animal case unfolds—watch out for what a cute squirrel can stir up in the wired halls of New York’s justice system!
NYDEC’s 5‑Hour Raid on Peanut’s Pad: A Tale of Squirrels, Raccoons, and Mishandled Mischief
When an anonymous tip hit the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, they didn’t just send a polite knock on the door. They launched a full‑blown five‑hour takeover of the humble home of Mark Luongo, home to the viral squirrel, Peanut, and his sidekick raccoon Fred.
What Went Down?
- Clad in thick leather gloves, agents stormed the house, citing concerns about a “potential rabies threat.”
- Both Peanut and Fred were seized “undercover,” then moved straight to the state’s experimental lab.
- In a move that felt more like a thriller than a public service, the animals were decapitated—yes, decapitated—before being tested for rabies.
- The tests came back negative, but the animal corpses were never returned and no statement of apology was made.
Reality Check: Fear or Fantasy?
According to court filings, the whole spectacle was not really about rabies. The officials admit that the treatment was a “senseless act of violence,” an obscene demonstration of government abuse, and not a health‑driven necessity. Yet, the state framed it as protection—boo‑hoo!
Community Reaction
- Pet lovers and internet fans were left stunned and outraged.
- Social media exploded with #RememberPeanut and #FredForever hashtags.
- Opposition groups called for a thorough review of wildlife intervention protocols.
Wrap‑Up
When you join the kitty-wrangling club of New York State and you’re not prepared for the bureaucracy of animal tests—especially a whole five‑hour siege—expect the unexpected. In the end, Peanut and Fred may have survived the tests, but their disappearance left a hole in their human family and a lasting mark on the public’s trust.
Sudden Squirrel Scramble: A Legal Spark Between Elmira and Peepee
What’s the Story?
Longo and Bittner have filed a fresh lawsuit that rides on top of an earlier suit from June 27. In total, the new case targets the City of Elmira plus 36 folks from different ranks of state and local government. They’re looking for a jury’s verdict—though they haven’t laid out the exact amount yet.
Why All the Fuss?
It all boils down to a furry superstar: a 7‑year old squirrel named Peanut. Peanut turned into an internet icon—social media, YouTube, & even, rumor has it, OnlyFans. When authorities raided the home, they snatched Peanut and a raccoon named Fred and eventually decided to euthanize the duo. The couple has known the emotional bleed and the financial sting since losing their star.
Key Quotes & Public Reactions
- Longo’s Heart‑Breaking Post: “RIP MY BEST FRIEND. Thank you for the best 7 years of my life. I’m sorry I failed you but thank you for everything.”
- Rugg’s Tweet (Nov. 2, 2024): “Officers raided my house as if I was a drug dealer. I was… pic.twitter.com/sSlbandoYO”
- Longo on the Seizure: “Last year we moved to NY in hopes of starting a NONPROFIT animal rescue in PNUT’s Name. [P’Nuts Freedom Farm] will forever live in PNUT’s memory.”
Freedom Farm: A Heroic Housing for Has‑Broods
A Connecticut native, Longo relocated to Elmira in 2023 to launch P’Nuts Freedom Farm, a 501.C.3 nonprofit dedicated to rescuing animals in distress. The farm has already handled over 350 rescues, with Peanut’s internet fandom churning donations for more furry friends.
Peanut’s Last Days (In Solidarity)
After the raid, a murmur of anonymous complaints surfaced, leading to the sad decision to euthanize both Peanut and Fred. The community still mourns—peals of laughter coupled with sobbing echo through the park.
What Comes Next?
As the lawsuits heat up, the defendants and plaintiffs are lining up for a jury showdown. The world watches, hoping for justice, some hope for a return of Peanut’s jokes, and maybe a sprinkle of glimmering legal fairness.
Top Takeaways
- Peanut wasn’t just a squirrel; he’s a national icon.
- Elmira’s law enforcement story has a dark twist—executions, beyond disease.
- Longo’s drive to help animals has turned a tragedy into a firefight for all.
- Future outcomes could shape how the next pet rescue will dive into the system.
Contact & Updates
Stay tuned for updates. Legal battles, internet stars, community compassion—Peanut’s legacy is far from over.
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Matt Baron/Shutterstock
Matt Baron/Shutterstock
Stephen Lovekin/Shutterstock
Matt Baron/Shutterstock
Matt Baron/Shutterstock
Matt Baron/Shutterstock