Overview

• Freedom of Information Law documents show New York wildlife officials pre-planned the euthanasia of Peanut the squirrel and Fred the raccoon for rabies testing days before the raid.
• The October 30 raid on P’nuts Freedom Farm involved 12 officers and resulted in the seizure and immediate euthanasia of the animals, both of which tested negative for rabies.
• Peanut’s death has sparked widespread backlash, with figures like Vice President JD Vance and Elon Musk criticizing the raid as excessive government action.
• The New York DEC has pledged reforms, including adopting a body-camera policy and appointing a deputy commissioner for public protection, following an internal review.
• Proposals for 'Peanut’s Law,' which would mandate a waiting period before euthanizing sanctuary animals, are under consideration as public and political pressure mounts.