Chemung County officials Tuesday responded to a claim the county Health Department ordered internet sensation Peanut the Squirrel to be euthanized.

The union representing New York environmental officers defended the decision to remove Peanut the Squirrel and a raccoon from a Pine City home, as misinformation about the incident has led to threats of violence against staff.

The union that represents officers from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) shared information about the investigation that led to the seizure and euthanasia of Peanut the squirrel,

The union representing DEC conservation officers said several licensed wildlife rehabilitators filed complaints about an illegal wildlife sanctuary.

The state Department of Environmental Conservation says it is investigating the seizure of Peanut the squirrel, who was later euthanized, from an upstate home.

The union that represents New York State's Environmental Conservation Officers is speaking out Friday, calling for a "calm" in the wake of the controversy.

The DEC raid, initiated by complaints about Longo's allegedly illegal housing of Peanut and Fred, escalated after Peanut reportedly bit an officer during the operation. The DEC claims both animals were euthanized for rabies testing, though Longo questioned the necessity, citing the protective gloves officers wore.

The seizure and euthanasia of a pet squirrel and raccoon in New York have sparked a massive backlash against the state's conservation agency.

Image via Instagram Days after the euthanization of Peanut the Squirrel, its owner is saying Department of Environmental Conservation officials won't release the test results. Officials euthanized both Peanut and Fred the Raccoon after taking them from Mark Longo's home.