NEW YORK, (WENY) -- Acting New York Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton promised changes in the DEC on Friday, March 28th, after performing an internal review of the seizure of Peanut the squirrel and Fred the raccoon from a Chemung County home back in Oct. 2024. The seizure, and eventual euthanasia of the two animals, generated international headlines, and even became a talking point for the Trump campaign leading up to the election. 

"At the direction of the Governor, in my initial few weeks as acting commissioner, I have prioritized a review of our current wildlife protection and enforcement process to protect New Yorkers and this agency from similar incidents in the future. We have carefully reviewed all the public feedback and we understand the distress caused to communities throughout the state. We know that we can do better moving forward," said Lefton in a statement. 

Lefton went on to say that the DEC will develop additional protocols specific to illegal wildlife possession. On top of that, Lefton said the DEC will welcome a new Deputy Commissioner for Public Protection and Emergency Response.

"We recognize that these improvements are necessary and in my new role I will ensure that DEC is focused on its mission to deliver clean air and water for every New Yorker while protecting the environment and our invaluable natural resources for future generations," said Lefton.