Mark Longo, a wildlife enthusiast and self-taught rehabilitator, had amassed a large online following by sharing content about his animal sanctuary, P'Nuts Freedom Farm, where Peanut was a prominent fixture. Peanut, an affectionate and playful squirrel, was first rescued by Longo after he witnessed Peanut’s mother die in a car accident. Peanut quickly became a beloved personality, not only in Longo’s home but also on social media, where fans connected deeply with his story of survival and his relationship with Longo. However, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), alongside the county health department, received reports alleging that Longo was illegally keeping wild animals as pets and housing them in conditions that posed potential risks for rabies.