Convicted con artist Anna Delvey, known for her elaborate scams, is once again at the center of controversy. This time, the alleged animal negligence involves two rabbits used in a New York City photoshoot. Delvey’s assistant has admitted to abandoning the animals in Prospect Park, leading to public outcry and a rescue effort.
The Photoshoot and the Discovery
Anna Delvey, whose real name is Anna Sorokin, recently posed for a photoshoot in New York City, holding two rabbits on leashes. The images, shared on her social media, quickly drew attention. Shortly after, a vegan influencer and blogger named Terry Chao recognized the rabbits as two she had recently rescued and named Moon and Parker.
Chao had found the rabbits in Prospect Park and, upon seeing Delvey’s photoshoot, contacted Christian Batty, who was credited as the rabbit scout. A tense exchange followed, with Batty initially denying any wrongdoing and claiming the rabbits were safe. However, the situation escalated as animal rights advocates flooded Delvey’s comments with criticism.
Assistant’s Confession and Delvey’s Defense
Under mounting pressure, Christian Batty issued a public apology, admitting that he was responsible for abandoning the rabbits. He explained that he panicked when the animals were surrendered to him, feeling overwhelmed and inexperienced in animal care. Batty claimed he mistakenly believed there were already rabbits in the park and released them there as his best option.
Delvey, in her defense, stated that she had only a tangential acquaintance with Batty and was unaware of his intentions. She asserted that Batty had obtained the rabbits through Facebook Marketplace and planned to release them, a plan she claims she had no knowledge of. Delvey emphasized her vegetarianism and stated she would never condone such actions.
Rescue and Aftermath
Terry Chao, with the help of other locals, successfully rescued the two rabbits, Moon and Parker, from Prospect Park. Batty also assisted in the rescue of a third rabbit, Joaquin, who had also been found in the park. The rescued rabbits are now in foster care, awaiting permanent homes, and Chao is organizing donations for their care.
Key Takeaways
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Anna Delvey’s photoshoot assistant, Christian Batty, admitted to abandoning two rabbits in Prospect Park.
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The rabbits were recognized by influencer Terry Chao, who had previously rescued them.
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Delvey denied involvement in the abandonment, claiming she was unaware of Batty’s plan.
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Batty cited panic and inexperience as reasons for his actions.
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The rabbits have been rescued and are in foster care, with efforts underway to raise funds for their care.
