New York Sued for $10M Over Euthanasia of Viral Squirrel P’Nut

Mark Longo and Daniela Bittner, co-owners of P’Nut the squirrel and raccoon Fred, have filed a $10 million lawsuit against the State of New York in the Court of Claims. The suit alleges that state officials improperly seized and euthanized P’Nut, an internet-famous animal with a large social media following, without following due process and on false premises [1]. The owners claim the state misrepresented facts, defamed them during the enforcement process, and caused both emotional and financial harm by ending a lucrative content venture [2].

P’Nut, who became a viral sensation online, was taken into custody by New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and Department of Health (DOH) officials last year. The incident sparked widespread public backlash and raised concerns about the legal and procedural boundaries of governmental agencies in handling exotic animals. The lawsuit argues that the state overstepped its authority by failing to consider P’Nut’s status as a well-cared-for pet rather than a threat to public health [3].

The case has no direct connection to cryptocurrency markets or on-chain activities, as the legal dispute centers on wildlife management and public health protocols rather than financial systems. While the lawsuit does not involve crypto assets, it highlights broader legal and ethical questions about the responsibilities of government agencies in dealing with non-native animals [4]. The plaintiffs are seeking not only compensation for the loss of their pets but also for the economic impact of the disruption to their online business.

The owners claim that the state’s actions have caused “immeasurable pain and loss” and express a desire to “seek justice for our beloved P’Nut and Fred” [5]. The case is still in its early stages, but it has already drawn significant public and media attention, reflecting the emotional and cultural value that people attach to animals that have become social media icons.

This lawsuit may establish a legal precedent for how similar incidents involving exotic or non-native animals are handled in the future. It could influence both the rights of pet owners and the policies of government agencies tasked with enforcing wildlife and public health laws. The outcome of the case may lead to a reassessment of current enforcement practices and their alignment with due process and transparency [6].

Source:

[1] https://wgna.com/pnut-squirrel-owner-sues-10m/

[2] https://www.aol.com/ny-could-owe-p-nut-125346189.html

[3] https://www.audacy.com/alice1059/news/peanut-the-squirrels-owners-are-suing-ny-for-usd10-million

[4] https://www.zerohedge.com/political/pnut-squirrels-owners-sue-new-york-10m-after-raid-decapitation

[5] https://coinmarketcap.com/community/articles/689ac44e1f3a5b4dc5e18019/

[6] https://www.aol.com/york-state-could-owe-10m-031506874.html